Duckling hatched with what appears to be its tongue under its beak

[Kjgensh216]

These were the best that I could get. I don’t want to hurt it or for it to die.

 

[Kjgensh216]

Is there a hole in the bottom of the beak?

Yes it looks like the middle of the lower beak is open

 

[Kjgensh216]

It is hard to see. Could you post several more pictures, in better lighting? If you gently pinch the corners of her bill, and open her mouth, can you see a tongue?

I posted more pics. It appears the tongue hanging below is what should be in its mouth/beak

 

[Isaac 0]

It's possible and definitely looks like the tongue is sticking out of the lower portion of the bill. You could help confirm this by prying her mouth open, and check to see if there is a tongue laying flat, as normal inside, or if it's sticking out.

If it's sticking out, preferably you seek vet attention, but if you can't you may just watch and make sure she's able to eat properly. Offering soupy duckling starter in a deep wide dish makes it for easier eating.

 

[Eggcessive]

Yes it does look like a defect in the lower bill. @isaac o is more familiar with ducks than I am.

 

[Kjgensh216]

It's possible and definitely looks like the tongue is sticking out of the lower portion of the bill. You could help confirm this by prying her mouth open, and check to see if there is a tongue laying flat, as normal inside, or if it's sticking out.

If it's sticking out, preferably you seek vet attention, but if you can't you may just watch and make sure she's able to eat properly. Offering soupy duckling starter in a deep wide dish makes it for easier eating.

That is what I am afraid of. When I went in earlier it wasn’t hanging out. But when I picked her up to look if came out the bottom and is now out. I’m reaching out to see if there is a vet who might be able to help me. They just hatched today I think. Found two more babies later and one egg that I do not believe is viable but put in my incubator to see. Momma was no where around

 

[Kjgensh216]

It's possible and definitely looks like the tongue is sticking out of the lower portion of the bill. You could help confirm this by prying her mouth open, and check to see if there is a tongue laying flat, as normal inside, or if it's sticking out.

If it's sticking out, preferably you seek vet attention, but if you can't you may just watch and make sure she's able to eat properly. Offering soupy duckling starter in a deep wide dish makes it for easier eating.

Is there any way to fix the hole for her?

 

[Kjgensh216]

Yes it does look like a defect in the lower bill. @isaac o is more familiar with ducks than I am.

Thank you

 

[Eggcessive]

It might fill in by itself, but food and water might leak out. Try to see if it is a defect or something sharp has made an opening.

 

[Kjgensh216]

It might fill in by itself, but food and water might leak out. Try to see if it is a defect or something sharp has made an opening.

Could the hawk have done that? It is definitely a hole.