Heat for Muscovy Ducklings?

[SaMable]

Hi,
I picked up 4 Muscovy ducklings yesterday and the woman I got them from said they are 2-3 weeks old. She also said they no longer need a heat source. These ducklings were still with their mother and I’m worried that they do, in fact, need a heat source. They huddle up in the corner of the crate they are currently housed in. They have been very quiet and I don’t see them eating/drinking much. They are terrified of me and start making a huge fuss when I disturb their space.

Should I provide a heat source for them?
What can I do to help them settle down and eat/drink? I’m well-experienced brooding chicks, and never had trouble getting them to eat.
Thanks so much!

 

[DuckyDonna]

@Miss Lydia

 

[Miss Lydia]

I have mine under heat still at 2-3 weeks give them a choice to be under heat or not by placing the lamp if that’s what you use at one end. Temp should be around 80. Is the crate completely open so they are exposed? In other words they need some place where they feel safe maybe put card board around the sides to give them some privacy. Of course they are going to be terrified especially since they were taken from their mama. Give them a quiet space to be in and give them time they’ll settle down. Try and always let them know you are coming before they see you too.

 

[DuckyDonna]

@Miss Lydia is absolutely right. Keep them tight and secluded until they are comfortable in their surroundings

 

[SaMable]

This is so helpful! I have a blanket covering most of the crate now and they have a box with pine shavings inside. They’re in a quiet room and we’re going to give them plenty of space for a while. And a heating pad is set up if they want some extra warmth. I appreciate the helpful advice.

 

[Miss Lydia]

I’d go in and sit with them read or be on your phone but just being close will help them get use to you. You don’t want total isolation.