Found abandoned duckling! Need advice please!

[FortCluck]

She was probably left behind because there was something wrong with her or she wasn't paying attention and wondered off. I honestly would call a wildlife rehabilitation center near you that can help her. Mallards are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 and having one in your possession is illegal. While your father was being compassionate towards another life, it's best to not touch any wildlife birds or eggs unless it's done by a wildlife rehab.

 

[Miss Lydia]

It is true a rehabber may know how to help this little duckling better having the experience. But Your doing a great job trying. Have you examine the legs does one look swollen or any way different than the other? can both legs extend to normal length? Have you put some warm wet feed on tip of your finger and tried getting her to eat that way?

 

[Lilwolfie]

It is true a rehabber may know how to help this little duckling better having the experience. But Your doing a great job trying. Have you examine the legs does one look swollen or any way different than the other? can both legs extend to normal length? Have you put some warm wet feed on tip of your finger and tried getting her to eat that way?

The rehabilitation people we have here arent good, her legs look fine and they seem to extend fine. And yes I've tried to put it on my finger and feed her, she just wont really eat. I'm afraid shes only pooed once also as far as I can see so that also worries me

 

[Miss Lydia]

You've checked for pasty butt? Don't give up mama Mallard probably had them out of the nest soon after the last one hatched so it can be 24 hrs or more before they begin to eat. Check her belly if all yolk sac is absorbed try putting her in some nice warm water just enough to cover tops of her legs and she what she does? Watch her closely and just let her be in for a few min. then make sure to get her dry quick under heat lamp. This can help to see how her legs work in warm water, and water can make them poop right off.

 

[Lilwolfie]

You've check for pasty butt?

Pasty butt?

 

[nuthatched]

Pasty butt?

Does her rear have white stuff on it.

 

[Miss Lydia]

That's where their little vent gets clogged with poop and they need to get it cleaned off asap it will look very dry and clogged. you can take a soft cloth or paper towel and warm water and clean it off. Pasty Buff can kill them if they can't poop.

 

[Lilwolfie]

Does her rear have white stuff on it.

It looks clogged, and it feels like something hard is blocking her from pooping

 

[DuckyDonna]

It looks clogged, and it feels like something hard is blocking her from pooping

ok then, a warm wet cloth and gently soak and remove it.

 

[Miss Lydia]

You can also place her into some nice warm water to start softening it up then use your finger or a soft cloth or qtip and try to gently start removing it. Hands can be washed.