Ducks near water?

[chris k]

Hi, thanks for your response in advance. I currently have 7 hens, they will be about 2 yrs old this spring. I plan to add a couple chicks this spring as well as a couple crested ducks. We live on the Mississippi River, I allow my flock to free range occasionally but not as much as I'd like. Do I have an issue with the ducks close to the river? Will they go swimming and never return?

 

[Miss Lydia]

Hi, thanks for your response in advance. I currently have 7 hens, they will be about 2 yrs old this spring. I plan to add a couple chicks this spring as well as a couple crested ducks. We live on the Mississippi River, I allow my flock to free range occasionally but not as much as I'd like. Do I have an issue with the ducks close to the river? Will they go swimming and never return?

Boy that is a big wide river I don't think I'd take the chance on letting them loose to find the river. We have a Mountain river below us and I don't let my ducks or geese on it too many predators and floating down river can cause them to get lost. Mine are enclosed in half acre fenced property.

@chris k Welcome to BYC

 

[Gray Farms]

I personally wouldn't let my duck near a river that large as well. If the get into the current they may never make it back.