Duck questions

[KristyHall]

My father brought me three juvenile ducks. He told me they are muscovies but they do not look anything like any muscovies I have ever seen. They have no read on their faces, they are pure white and stand upright. Are these runner ducks? or pekine? They still do not have all their feathers but they are already pretty large. Though frightened these birds are pretty docile and have not bit anyone. I believe one is a drake, and the other two females. Should I get a mate for one of the females or will a male mate with both?

Any way I can help them not be so scared? They are doing fine with the chickens and Guinness, but they start quacking and huddle in the pen when I approach, even if they are in the middle of grazing or splashing in the kiddie pool.

 

[sourland]

Hi, Kristy, if they are quacking they are not muscovies. 'Standing upright' sure sounds as if they are runners. One drake to two hens is plenty - even more hens would be good. Drakes tend to be very sexually aggressive. Feed is the great equalizer. Move quietly around them speaking softly, and they will soon learn that you are the peaceful bringer of food. They are shy because they are at a new home, and frequently teen aged ducks go through a goofy spell anyway. Not that different from us are they?

 

[KristyHall]

thank you Sourland! They are adorable. I have been giving them their space while tossing food out to the animals in hopes they will see i am not a threat, but I like ducks and while I have never had any before, it is hard to resist the urge to pick them up and cuddle them.