Did my relocating go wrong?

[hsollars]

Hi, I have had 10 mallard ducklings in my pool/backyard for 7 weeks. We fed and watered them daily. My pool had some issues that caused it to no longer be a healthy environment for the mama and ducklings and must be drained. I contacted the local Wildlife Fish and Game about relocating the Hen and her duckings; however, I was informed to move them myself. My daughter and I managed to crate all of the duckings and the mama. We were informed that since we had mama, we could drop them at the local golf course pond, but let mama out last. While I attempted to wrap the mama in a towel to let her go last, she got away and flew intro the pond. The ducklings "busted" out of the crate and all swam into the pond. It appeared as though they were all reunited. We stayed for about 10 minutes to watch them all swim off together. Later that night, the mama showed up at the pool. She flew away again; however, this morning she returned.

I wonder if she is looking for the ducklings? Did she not see them at the pond? Did I just essentially kill the ducklings by separating them? They are all mostly as large as she, they just have not yet taken flight. What should I do with mama? Should I try to capture the mama again and take her back to the pond or is it too late? My heart breaks for her because she wouldn't leave her duckings which is what leads me to believe she doesn't realize where they are. I hope I did the right thing.

 

[TwoCrows]

Welcome to BYC!

Don't beat yourself up. You did the right thing. I am thinking that because they were taken to a new place, momma may have not known where to sleep that night to avoid predators and it is possible they were taken by something. If you saw them all together for 10 mins yesterday, than she knew they were there. She is very smart and knows where her babies are at all times.

You could try to take her back, but if her babies have been alone all this time, they are probably not there. I am really sorry you have such a heavy heart. I can completely understand your pain. Try not to punish yourself over this. You did what you thought was right. I am so sorry. Many hugs to you and I hope your heavy heart can heal soon.

 

[gander007]

Well you did it the right way but things happen ...

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC! You might try posting on the Ducks forum if anyone has any ideas what is the best thing to do about the mother. www.backyardchickens.com/f/42/ducks I would be inclined to take her back to the pond if you can catch her.

 

[drumstick diva]

The ducklings may have gone off with other ducks they found at the pond. Ducks(parents) are nowhere as protective as Canadian Geese toward their young. They don't have the power or size to drive off predators - they usually abandon their ducklings if something panics them. Please don't beat yourself up over this - you tried your best to do right. You are a very nice person to care so much.

 

[hsollars]

I truly appreciate all of your kind words and understanding! It really helps me to know that 1., I am not alone in caring for these guys and 2., I am not crazy for being concerned about their wellbeing. Its sad how uncaring people can be toward wild animals. At least now I know better and will be better prepared if faced with this challenge again.