Duckling with under bite....will it survive?

[SD Bird Lady]

I noticed this morning that one of my week old ducklings was mouth breathing. Upon closer inspection it appers that the bottom bill is longer than the top almost like she is biting her tongue. She is lively and is eating and drinking fine I just wondered if this is something she will out grow....if it will eventually kill her...of if there is anything I should do other than keep and eye on her.

 

[Amiga]

At this point, keeping watch is about all you can do. If the upper mandible is not growing properly, perhaps some extra vitamins could help (just in case it is some kind of deficiency).

Many ducks with bill problems get along pretty well. You may eventually need to make some sort of accommodations with her food or feeding, but maybe not.

If you can upload a photo some time, that might be helpful.

 

[SD Bird Lady]

I'll try to get a pic...they are still pretty tiny and flighty so I will see what I can get accomplished. I guess at this point I will just wait and see since I dont want to risk breeding her if it is genetic she may just be a "feeder duck" or maybe a pet if I get to attached but most likely won't get many accomidations around here so only time can tell.....mother nature can be a cruel mistress.


****she may even be a he, they are supposed to be sexed but you never really know until you see that curl or someone lays an egg

 

[SD Bird Lady]

amiga thank you for your reply. The duckling seems fine again this morning so I am wondering if many she just got stepped on or had something stuck under hr tongue causing here to hold her mouth funny. Oh well it is all good now..yay!!