Handling Ducklings

[Tom NJ]

So, I got a pair of Cayuga ducklings today. I had ordered them from McMurray's. The hen is quite vibrant, but the drake is a bit subdued. I hope he makes it. He does appear to be better than when they first arrived. Anyway, I had picked up the hen and held her gently on my chest. She immediately started swinging her head side to side showering me with wet feed out of her mouth. I then picked up the drake and he did the same exact thing to me. Is this a defense mechanism? If so, how many times do I have to get feed all over before they stop?

 

[cracking up]

I had a little goose in my shirt most of the day today. I wrapped it in a wash cloth but it wiggled out and climbed up. I just put them next to me if they seem sad or picked on or cold or I just want to. I just figure I'll be a mess afterward.

 

[Duck Mad]

It deffo doesnt sound to me like anything of defense... May both ate to much to quick.. try an avoid picking them straight after food..... sounds to me like the crop is a lill overloaded

 

[Tom NJ]

My drake died

The hen is very distraught. She won't stop calling loudly and keeps trying to jump out of the brooder.

 

[Lamar Estate]

I'm very sorry to hear that. And, how horrible for your little girl.

Although it's not a fun thing to do nor do you probably feel like doing this right now, you may want to start looking for a sibling for her ASAP. I had one duckling and one gosling hatch at the same time (on Monday). Their hatch mates died in the shell a day beforehand. I couldn't find a feed store or anyone on Craigslist selling ducklings or goslings that were the same age. The gosling cried and cried (still does a lot). Finally, people on this forum suggested I put them together. It helps a bit.

Sincerely,
Amanda

 

[AnaD]

Quote:
I'm so sorry! I hope you can find a buddy for your little girl!

 

[Duck Mad]

oh dear, sorry to hear that

 

[whitedove]

So sorry Tom.

Will they send a replacement for him?

 

[Tom NJ]

They will replace him, but I needed to order an additional duck so they could ship. This isn't a problem, but my wife and I felt so bad for her that we ran to TSC and bought two mallards. I really wanted Cayugas, not Mallards, but I definitely don't want five ducks. So, I may cancel my replacement/order.