Duckling with neck problem

adrian

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10 Years
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I recently hatched a little duck that randomly twists his neck backwards, sometimes so much that he flips over backwards. But he can right himself right away. He can preen, peck around for food, walk around, and stand up, and he is a barrel of energy right now. He doesn't always twist his neck, but usually does it when I put him back in his cage. He's usually so interested in me when I pick him up that he doesn't do this. He seems pretty normal aside from the fact that he holds his head up a lot more than the others. He seems completely unaffected by it, and I am considering keeping him because I don't think he's "farm material".

Does anyone know what this is, and if it might endanger his life? Has anyone had experience with birds exhibiting these symptoms?

He has definitely improved since he hatched earlier today. He hatched completely by himself and seemed very strong, but the very moment he was out, he started to twist his neck. It has improved very much, in that the twisting is episodic and rare, rather than constant.

Here is a picture of him - just looking up at me. He does hold his head rather high most of the time, but he can stretch it well. He doesn't seem paralyzed in any means.

IMG_6623.jpg
 
Post this in the duck forum....you may get more info there. It may be wry neck...I am not sure. Do a search for it...there are posts about it. It could be something as simple as being cramped in the shell or getting his neck stuck in one position while hatching...if it is getting better. You ca add some vitamins to the water...do it half the strength you would for a chick because they drink so much more water than the chicks.
 

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