Encouraging Ducks to Eat

[musselmulk]

I recently bought 4 Golden 300 hens from a friend in a neighboring town. They've been home for 3 days, and I get eggs every morning, but I haven't seen them eat a single piece of their crumble food. It's the same kind their previous owner fed them, but they haven't touched it. I let them roam first thing in the morning and then last thing at night (my yard has no shade in the middle of the day, and they go back to their pen anyway), but I can't see how they're possibly getting enough food just from those few hours. Is there any way to encourage them to eat the crumbles, or should I just leave them be?

 

[Amiga]

Do they have access to food and water 24/7?

Have you checked closely to make sure the food is not moldy?

 

[Amykins]

Give them time. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that ducks HATE change! I admit I have some issues with Bean eating, since she's so demure and skittish anything will distract her away from that food bowl!

They could just be spooked and still getting used to their new environment. Have you tried giving them green leafy treats? Even with their foraging, I think offering some kale to them late at night will help them form a bond with you as well as giving them something to fill their crops with before bed.