Do you worry about thier feet freezing?

[MsMelvin]

It's 8 degrees outside and the snow is about 6 inches deep. I let Lucy out and she sits down and pulls her feet in...

 

[4nematode]

Geese and ducks are blessed with an elaborate heat-exchange system in their circulatory systems. Her feet are not going to freeze. It might be a nice touch to give your girl some straw to sit on, if she chooses, but she'll be fine. She's an anatomical wonder.

Here is a detailed explanation: img/smilies/wink.png" alt="wink" />">http://askanaturalist.com/why-don%E2%80%99t-ducks%E2%80%99-feet-freeze/

 

[MsMelvin]

Very interesting!

(Her coop floor has a fluffy layer of hay & shavings). I'm giving her back her freedom; thank you.

Guess I just worry too much about the critters that live here : )

 

[chickensioux]

Jennifer (at the Carolina Waterfowl Rescue) explained it to me too. I had asked her this question. But it is hard to really understand without the visual. Thanks for that website, that explained it and made it easy to understand. I too had worried.

 

[goosedragon]

Quote:
Usually snow is warmer than air, have you seen them swim on water with a skim of ice on it? the water is right at 32F

 

[chocolate m'scovy]

LOL! I saw my muscovies in the snow yesterday, and they didn't look frozen! They perform this funny "dance" ritual- they stick out their foot, shake it vigorously, then tuck it up inside their body somewhere.

Don't forget they have all that down for a reason. They can sit on the snow and they're protected by their cushiony feathery jackets.

If you're still concerned you can give them straw.

 

[zazouse]

Mine love the water even at 29 degrees, they swim in our ponds but prefer these tubs i provide for them.