Drake lost his mate

[LaQuintaQuackers]

My Rouen Drake lost his mate last night,
she had just started laying eggs.
Do I get him a new mate right away? I’m having trouble finding a young adult female Rouen (8 months). I’m heartbroken for him (and me). They had been together since they were babies.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Any breed except Bantam would be fine. A bantam duck would be way too small for a Rouen drake. The new female should be at least laying age which is around 5 months.

Very sorry for your loss.

 

[LaQuintaQuackers]

I know other people have said this, but yes get him a female, or even just a male friend but females are best. I raise rouens as well. I also have a cayuga in my flock, so yes any big duck like a pekin, cayuga, silver appleyards, blue/black Swedish and more are all about the same size as rouens. Best of luck finding your duck a friend, they do get sad but with a friend they’ll be a lot happier

That is great you found one. A 3 year old will be perfect for him. You just don't want one younger than him.

I’m picking her up on Thursday. I’m excited. Her name is Luna.

 

[MartinFamilyHomestead]

Thank you. I’m having trouble finding a female Rouen close in age. Should it be a Rouen or can it be a different female? Obviously not a duckling but what age?

Definitely keep looking and try to find him a mate as quickly as possible. Ducks can actually grieve and become very very lonely. I don’t think you need a Rouen just any breed that isn’t too much smaller. Anything with adult feathers. Probably 4 months old or older

 

[Quatie]

Try posting on the southern California thread and see if anyone has some ducks.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/california-southern.161/

 

[LaQuintaQuackers]

You have all been so supportive and helpful. I’m happy to report she is settling in very nicely and he is one very happy boy.

 

[sourland]

It would be good to get him a mate/company as soon as is possible.

 

[EmmaGRS]

I know other people have said this, but yes get him a female, or even just a male friend but females are best. I raise rouens as well. I also have a cayuga in my flock, so yes any big duck like a pekin, cayuga, silver appleyards, blue/black Swedish and more are all about the same size as rouens. Best of luck finding your duck a friend, they do get sad but with a friend they’ll be a lot happier

 

[Quatie]

Thank you!

Miss Lydia, I think I found a Rouen female. She’s beautiful but she’s 3 years old. He’s not even 1. Does that matter at all?

That is great you found one. A 3 year old will be perfect for him. You just don't want one younger than him.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Congratulation they look great together!!