Help! Broody abandoned ducklings - now what??

[dingodyna]

I had a broody Pekin that successfully hatched out ducklings. Recently she became disinterested in them and they were abandoned after 8 days with her. I brought them inside into our brooder. It's only been a few hours but they don't seem interested in eating. Is this something the mother duck helps them with? Do I need to help them eat or will they figure it out?

 

[Quatie]

Gently dip their beaks in the food and as well as the water. This is also a big transition for them and likely a bit scary. It may take them a little time to start eating. If you don't notice anything in a few hours, I would start to worry more. But right now, I think it is mostly shock.

@Miss Lydia may have some other ideas on how to get them to start eating.

 

[CluckerFamily]

I would show them where the feeder is and the waterer you have set up.

 

[dingodyna]

Okay, I will give it some time! They seem to understand the waterer but they just seem totally indifferent to the food. I'll give it a few more hours before I really start to panic

 

[sweaterthebroodyrooster]

I had a broody Pekin that successfully hatched out ducklings. Recently she became disinterested in them and they were abandoned after 8 days with her. I brought them inside into our brooder. It's only been a few hours but they don't seem interested in eating. Is this something the mother duck helps them with? Do I need to help them eat or will they figure it out?

View attachment 2755156

Okay, I will give it some time! They seem to understand the waterer but they just seem totally indifferent to the food. I'll give it a few more hours before I really start to panic

Praying all goes well!

 

[Quatie]

Okay, I will give it some time! They seem to understand the waterer but they just seem totally indifferent to the food. I'll give it a few more hours before I really start to panic

Did they eventually start eating?

 

[dingodyna]

Yes, thankfully! After about 90 minutes they finally started eating and by this morning most of the food is gone.

 

[Quatie]

Yes, thankfully! After about 90 minutes they finally started eating and by this morning most of the food is gone.

That is so great to hear! Glad the little cuties are eating now.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Thats great!!

 

[sweaterthebroodyrooster]

Yes, thankfully! After about 90 minutes they finally started eating and by this morning most of the food is gone.

Aw, I'm so glad! Praise the Lord!!