Can I move a nested duck and her ducklings??

[Carrie the Farmgirl]

Our duck hen nested under a hedge in our open pasture. Her eggs are starting to hatch today. They are very vulnerable to predators in the current location...especially once the ducklings start making noise! How can I move her and the nest/ babies/ eggs to a safer spot? I have a penned-in area where she and the ducklings can be safe...just not sure the best/ least stressful way to move the nest. So far we have seen two ducklings...many more eggs under her. Thank you!

 

[Top Rooster]

Yes but make sure they have all hatched if not it could cause problems for the chick that is hatching

 

[Carrie the Farmgirl]

Do you think i could just catch her and then scoop up the babies??

 

[Top Rooster]

yes but you may need some help I'd get the chicks first then the mama

 

[chickens really]

Catch the Hen first.........Then go get babies....Put them in a secure area and do not interfere till tomorrow..Make sure they have food and water for the Ducklings...I just did this last week...

 

[Carrie the Farmgirl]

Catch the Hen first.........Then go get babies....Put them in a secure area and do not interfere till tomorrow..Make sure they have food and water for the Ducklings...I just did this last week...

Do you think I should wait 24 hours until the eggs are done hatching? Or do it now? Before the night?

 

[chickens really]

Wait because nothing will get her...She will be like a crocodile...Believe me....Keep watching for her to leave the nest and then catch her first and then the babies...

 

[chickens really]

My once nice Hen is pure Croc over her Ducklings...
Scares me to death....lol

 

[Carrie the Farmgirl]

Thank you, everyone, for your guidance! So far we have 6 babies! I will wait until all eggs have had a chance to hatch, then catch her and move her to the safe location. I am scared to grab her- haha!

 

[Top Rooster]

Update us if they all hatch