Handling ducks

[katiebrock]

I have two Khaki Campbell ducks and they are about 8 weeks old. They eat out of my hand and follow me around but when I reach for them they run away. I want to be able to handle them in case I have to catch them or take them to the vet. Any suggestions?

 

[Cayuga momma]

Go digging for worms with them. Mine acted like I was satan, until I go out looking for worms. Then they practically crawl in my lap.

 

[DuckyBabies]

I would attempt to pick my ducks up all the time and they never liked it. To this day they will eat treats out of my hand and be right on me, but if I even attempt to pet them they are gone. Catching them is something awful. I hope you have better luck than I do!

 

[Jbently28]

I've never had any success handling my KCs. I've done everything possible since they were ducklings. They're just an all around touch me not breed.

 

[katiebrock]

Go digging for worms with them. Mine acted like I was satan, until I go out looking for worms. Then they practically crawl in my lap.

Good idea, I never would have thought of that!

 

[happy duck]

My ducks liked being held when they where little and now will eat out of my hand and will have a good mood sometimes and let me pet them on the back. This is what I have observed(over the last few days) with patients they will warm up to you. My duck has a limp right now(don't worry about it) and I have had to put my arms around him to put ointment on it(I never picked him up)...he hated it at first but now is more chill with it. I can pick him put if I need to and he will just look at me like "what are you doing..I thought you loved me!" but all is good. I would keep trying...and even hold them a lot when they are older..that is when they like it less and less. Good luck!

 

[Kneipho]

they are creatures of habit ... one must with confidence and care scoop them up and be held the same way (pisition) every time. then you have the joy of them pearching on your shoulder . the real test is how you react to the to the nervious or often happy poops

 

[happy duck]

How has the training stuff worked?

 

[katiebrock]

How has the training stuff worked?

I have been spending more time with them but not touching them and that has seemed to help a lot. I also pet them a little bit when they are eating a treat like mealworms because they are so focused on that they don’t think to be scared of me!

 

[happy duck]

I have been spending more time with them but not touching them and that has seemed to help a lot. I also pet them a little bit when they are eating a treat like mealworms because they are so focused on that they don’t think to be scared of me!

That is what I do too. Sounds like they are doing good. Keep updating us...we love to hear!