Ducks are stupid

[M-H-Fielding]

Yes, you are right. I just caught the post at the wrong time - bedtime.
I also adore my ducks very much and observe their behaviors, so I've seen them do some interesting things. They learn very quickly though and it amazes me how quick they catch on.

I agree!

 

[Miss Lydia]

I think it's hilarious when my Runners and Buffs try and go through the pop door all at the same time.
They sure are entertaining.

 

[Stoney Meadow Maple]

They are “special” in any case. It amazes me that most of them will put up quite a fuss about being handled, but run right up when i have something they want i am A-ok . Try to pick one up and nothing doing. Just my Scuba, she takes it all in stride and she is friends with everyone.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Can we see a picture of Scuba?

 

[CreveChris]

I don't think they are dumb or stupid. They just don't like change and are leery of new things this has to do with the fact that they are prey animals and have no real defense from predators. As for the light, did you know that at night you can guide them by using a flash light? I am not sure why ducks are leery of light especially when its directly in front of them, but they are and you can use it to your advantage. But, obviously not install one at an opening where they are supposed to enter.
Ducks are actually very intelligent and learn things quickly. A domestic duck is thought to be as intelligent as a 3 yr old child which would be on par with dogs. It's all about the trainer or the stimulus you provide for them.

This is article compares ducks to other animals: https://www.birdwatchingusa.org/are-ducks-smart

This is another great article: https://www.tyrantfarms.com/7-amazing-duck-facts/
Especially this section:

DUCKS ARE MAKING SCIENTISTS RETHINK ABSTRACT INTELLIGENCE.​

Abstract intelligence is defined as “the capacity to understand and manage abstract ideas and symbols.” In humans, abstract intelligence is essential for such things as creative problem solving, humor, and novel ideas and inventions.

Conventional scientific wisdom has held that abstract thinking was only possible in a handful of super-intelligent animals such as apes, crows, and dolphins. It was also thought that abstract intelligence required experiential learning and possibly teaching/instructing from an adult in combination with punishments/rewards. Then along came a 2016 study where scientists performed a range of tests on ducklings…

Researchers found that as soon as ducklings hatch, they have a remarkable degree of abstract intelligence. The study’s co-author, Alex Kacelnik, of Oxford University’s zoology department, said: “To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of a non-human organism learning to discriminate between abstract relational concepts without any reinforcement training.”

Too cool! Here's a video of the study:

 

[Miss Lydia]

Poor baby is looking for something to call a friend.

 

[CreveChris]

Poor baby is looking for something to call a friend.

Imprinted upon two spheres seems rather cruel, honestly

 

[Magnolia Ducks]

I thought it looked like duckling torture. Give that poor baby a friend and it will stop crying.

 

[Crazy Maizie]

Too cool! Here's a video of the study:

I will watch later when I have time.

 

[Stoney Meadow Maple]

Can we see a picture of Scuba?

I can get a better one later on, shes sort of slow and usually looks a bit ragged compared to the others, she was sort of half broody all summer and her feathers took it hard. Looks like she’s decided to start molting. She does much better on water than land..she’s definitely a fan favorite however.
Reminds me of Tiny Tim from the Disney Christmas Carrol