Duckling problems

[Lourdie]

My duckling is very special to me. she was assisted during her hatch. And I thought we would be best friends, but she is terrified of me. we have 4 more chickens and she stays with them. I want her to be my friend, but she always runs away. what should I do? and she is about 3 weeks old, can she go outside with them? we are getting her a playmate soon.

 

[Isaac 0]

Once ducklings are around three weeks or so they're natural instincts start to overcome their bonding type mother behavior when young, so this is completely normal, its only instinct for a tiny duckling to be afraid of a large human.

Have you ever seen ducks in the wild? Ever notice how they're always in a flock? Ever notice how a duck doesn't usually hang out with a crow?

Ducks are flock animals that should be kept with other ducks, not solely humans, not solely chickens. I know you don't want to hear this, but I would really suggest getting her some duck friends.

 

[Lourdie]

Thanks you so much, so my duck will soon like me?

 

[Lourdie]

And is there anything I should be doing to help gain her trust?

 

[Lourdie]

And is there anything I should be doing to help gain her trusted one more duck enough for her?

 

[Maddog_photog]

And is there anything I should be doing to help gain her trust?

I’m no pro like @Isaac 0 but I suggest treats. Lots and lots of treats - peas, cut up grapes, mealworms, lettuce in the water. Treats is the language of duck trust. Don’t forget to provide grit.

 

[Lourdie]

My duck has a crooked beak so it’s a lot harder for her to eat

 

[Maddog_photog]

My duck has a crooked beak so it’s a lot harder for her to eat

Okay. I would wait for @Isaac 0 or @Miss Lydia

 

[Lourdie]

Thank you anyways I appreciate it

 

[Isaac 0]

Thanks you so much, so my duck will soon like me?

In my experience, once they start to mature a bit they'll soon begin to regain your trust, but there are lots of factors that are going to determine when she will, so just be patient.

And is there anything I should be doing to help gain her trust?

You can bribe her with treats, just make sure it doesn't start to make up then 10% of her diet. Just hanging out with them so they get used to your presence is a good way too. Key points are to speak with a quiet calm voice around them, walk slowly and don't make any fast movements that might startle them

And is there anything I should be doing to help gain her trusted one more duck enough for her?

Not sure I understand this question.

My duck has a crooked beak so it’s a lot harder for her to eat

Could you post a picture? With bill deformities its always a good idea to provide a nice wide, open, somewhat deep feed and water dish so they can better "scoop" feed/water into their mouth.