Ducks opening and closing beaks quickly and repeatedly

[chaddmbennett]

Hi,

We are pretty new to the duck world, having our Khaki Campbell and Blue Swedish (sex still unknown) now for about 7 weeks.

We have noticed that sometimes the ducks will quickly open and close their beaks repeatedly without making a sound. It can go on for 3-4 minutes at a time.

We thought it was a fear response, since it often happened when we got close to them (they are very skittish, and don't seem to enjoy our company), but I also noticed that they were doing it while laying down.

Any ideas on what this action is?

Thanks!

Chadd

 

[Wifezilla]

They could have just eaten and are moving the food along. My ducks do this when they pig out

 

[itsmyaddiction]

Quote:
Always make sure they have plenty of water when they are eating. Ducks cannot digest dry food without water, they don't intend to make such a mess when they eat, just the way they were created! Hope this helps!