duckling question

[smpezzi]

We are getting some ducks next week and I have been checking double checking and making myself lists but it just dawned on me I do have one qustion I haven't found an answer to yet- When they go into the brooder, should I put papertowel down at first like I do for chicks or can they go right on shavings? Hints suggestions advice welcome

TIA

 

[karanleaf]

If it were me smpezzi I would go with the paper towel for a bit then to the shavings.

 

[ChickenToes]

My ducklings went right onto shavings without a problem. It's up to you though, people do it both ways.

 

[Wildsky]

I set up my brooder with a small cardboard box with shavings, and the rest of the brooder had towels and rubber placemats.

Here's a pic

 

[naturemom]

Oooooh!
So does that mean you aren't changing soaking wet shavings all day long? I think I need to try that!

 

[Wildsky]

Quote:
Yep - they make everything else wet!

I did buy four utility mats a little later - and overlapped two at a time in there to cover the floor - while those two were being used, the other two were hosed off - a put a squirt of dishwashing liquid if needed, and left them out on the deck to dry.... kept switching like that. (the utility mats were $2 each at walmart)

 

[ticks]

They make a mess of everything. You have been warned

 

[smpezzi]

Quote:
Thanks for the warning- hubby is determined to have ducks if I have chickens LOL so I have chickens so he is getting ducks- of course I will be the one taking care of them but it will be worth it

 

[smpezzi]

Thanks for the help everyone

You guys are the greatest!

 

[hatchcrazzzy]

they are really really messy