Ducklings scratching themselves

[nuthatched]

Hi, I have 6 muscovy ducklings that I have been observing for some time now. They are 22 days old and appear to be very healthy In appearance. There are many good videos online that could be very helpful. I have been documenting their progress from when they were eggs. I have cameras set up and able to monitor their every day habits.

As far as the itching. I don't know exactly why they itch, but it appears to be normal. I use wood chips for their bedding and gave them the option to use the brooder to keep them warm. They like to bond together for warmth and because they are siblings. I leave them outside during the day and I have a small inflatable baby pool. They love it! At night I bring them inside, but before I put them in their sleeping area, I put them in a plastic storage basket. I fill with warm water about 3 to 4 inches of water. They love that too! My ducklings clean themselves and dip their heads and body under water. All the dirt will sink to the bottom. After about 10 minutes I dry them off with a towel and put them in their sleeping quarters with some food and water. They find themselves very clean and relaxed.
I am not by any means an expert on muscovy ducklings, but I found myself with the motive to care of them until they grow wings. There are many predators that are interested in the eggs and as new born ducklings. In the past few months I have been surprised to find 5 different nests at my front door. These ducklings will be my last. The mother of the ducklings still visits 2 to 3 times a day. I will release them to her when they grow their wings, so they can get away from predators.
There is a story to tell from the first nest to present.
I hope I was able to answer some of your questions that you may have had.

Good Luck!

This thread is from 2012, friend, if you're experiencing problemsolving, you will want to make your own thread.:]