Duckling question...

[SunAngel]

I had 12 ducklings hatch this past weekend and the last 2 aren't doing as good as the others. One of the two can't seem to get one leg to work and the tiniest of the two looks more like a penguin slinding on its tummy with its feet out behind it.

Is there anything I can do to get their legs working right? Will this problem correct itself as they get a little older or should I just cull them both? I know how to use a bandaid for spraddle leg in chicks, but have no clue what to do for these guys. The littlest one just lays on his tummy kicking its legs.

Thanks for any suggestions.

 

[Wifezilla]

You could try separating them and giving them poly vi sol in their water or some feed with some crushed brewer's yeast tablet sprinkled on the feed. Leg issues can be a sign of niacin deficiency, but if all the other ducks are fine, it could be developmental and not diet.

Of course cull them if they appear to be suffering. If not, and you are willing to invest the time, you could try giving them a second chance.

 

[SundownWaterfowl]

Sounds like spraddle leg. Tie their feet together like you would do with chicks, and see what happens. Since they are already a couple days old, it might not work.

 

[SunAngel]

Thanks, I will try the poly vi sol. The only way I can see that they might be suffering, is that they can't really get to their food and water, so they arent putting on much weight (specially the tiniest one).

I have been trying to hold them and force them to keep both legs under their bodys, instead of behind them, but not sure its helping.

 

[SunAngel]

Quote:
It might work with the one that is a little older, but I was afraid the littler one would just keep both feet stuck behind it with the bandaid holding them together. Anything is worth a try at this point.