Ducks on wire?

[CurlyLindsay]

I am duck-sitting for our of town friends.

I've heard ducks can't be kept on wire floors, but would it be okay temporarily?, and if that wire mesh is laying on the ground?

I'm keeping them in a dog crate with the pan pulled out and chicken wire zip tied to the bottom- moving the whole thing outside during the day, and putting it inside on straw overnight.

 

[goosedragon]

Ducks are often raised on wire, it is the quick answer to the wet muddy brooder question as all the water just falls through the wire. you have to check their feet for sores that sometimes comes from being on wire abd sonetimes they will catch their toes on the wire, but with a reasonable level of care it can be done.

 

[calmlake]

I personally would not use wire floors, however convenient it might be for the human. duck feet and legs are their weak link and conditions like bumblefoot, split webs and sprains can occur. better to put a layer of straw on the cage floor and change it daily than risk permanent injury.

Bill
Mt Holly Duck Sanctuary