LocaFarmMom
In the Brooder
I have a mixed flock of adult ducks, geese, and chickens, but have always brooded the chicks and water babies in separate groups. But now I have a situation...
Due to some unfortunate shipping, I have a single duckling arriving today instead of the several I ordered. I am currently brooding 9 chicks that are about 3 weeks old. Is there any way to brood the duckling with the chicks so it doesn't get lonely until I can figure out how to get more baby waterfowl? I know that the water setup will be a major challenge, so I'll need to do some brainstorming on that. I'm leaning towards having a separate duckling brooding container and just see if I can socialize the duckling with the chicks with supervision during the day.
Also, should I try to separately introduce the duckling to the adult waterfowl early if I cannot get more babies soon? Or will my single duckling grow up thinking it's a chicken? ;-)
Any advice welcome!
Due to some unfortunate shipping, I have a single duckling arriving today instead of the several I ordered. I am currently brooding 9 chicks that are about 3 weeks old. Is there any way to brood the duckling with the chicks so it doesn't get lonely until I can figure out how to get more baby waterfowl? I know that the water setup will be a major challenge, so I'll need to do some brainstorming on that. I'm leaning towards having a separate duckling brooding container and just see if I can socialize the duckling with the chicks with supervision during the day.
Also, should I try to separately introduce the duckling to the adult waterfowl early if I cannot get more babies soon? Or will my single duckling grow up thinking it's a chicken? ;-)
Any advice welcome!