Female Duck - Adopting chicks not her own.

[Bob4454]

I have a white golden layer duck, a hybrid, that was unsuccessful in hatching her own eggs this spring. I have ordered some new chicks to add to the flock on my own pond.
My question is: Do you think that this female hen will adopt 10 new baby ducks that are put with her or will they be in danger? I'd appreciate advice.

 

[Amiga]

I suppose she could take to them, but more often I hear stories of adult ducks harassing and harming ducklings. I would have them separate, perhaps just separated by some fence so they can see each other, and watch carefully what happens.

Welcome!

 

[HEChicken]

If she is not currently broody, I don't think it is likely that she will adopt them. If she IS broody, I would try slipping the new ducklings under her at night and at the same time remove any eggs she is sitting on, then be prepared to monitor closely next morning as she is waking up to make sure she is accepting the switch.