Ducklings Learning to Swim

[CK Chickadilly]

When can I put them in the tub. How much water & how warm should it be? I know you have to watch them so they don't tire & drown, how long do you usually let them swim? Anything I forgot?

 

[ChickenToes]

They get their oil glands in at 2 or 3 weeks old, so anytime after that. Put them in warm water. I would let them swim for 10 minutes or so, then put them back in under a heat lamp so they dry off quickly. You may even be able to let them swim longer than that, I'm really not sure...anyone else?

 

[streemers]

i read the glands come in a 5-6 wks but i have been putting them in the bath since they where a few days but only with an inch or 2 of water. always with a "babysiter" and they have been fine. but like she said make sure they go right under the heat lamp.

i also keep the water warm but not hot and my bathroom heater on full blast

 

[Katy]

I've always given my call ducklings supervised swimming time from about the second day. Don't leave them alone and make sure they have a heat lamp to warm up and help dry afterwards.

 

[CK Chickadilly]

Thanks for the info! I will wait a few more days just to make sure they are settled in well.

But I can't wait!

 

[lorieMN]

you could just wait until they feather out...they dont have to swim with baby fuzz on them,and once they feather out they are old enough you wont need to worry much about them getting chilled.and they are old enough to be able to get out of the pool on their own,as long as you make it so they can,BTW,they dont need to "learn" to swim,it just comes natural.