Help!!!! Runner duckling

[RunGuy77]

It's life, and as you say, life can be brutal. On the bright side we seem to have anther 8 healthy looking birds.
The advice was great and to be honest confirmed my first thoughts.
I have no idea about the chick crumb as it's not labeled up. The feed store has broken down a bigger bag. I am taking the crumb out, not risking it. will they be OK with greens and oats?

 

[RunGuy77]

So they called me out about the water comment and hopped in. I have however caught the drake attacking the ducklings picking one up by the wing.
As a result i burst in and he is now locked out of the run. Anyone else had this.

 

[Hybridchucks]

Yeah for now I guess?, but they need chick crumb...UNMEDIATED try and some. ASAP

 

[RunGuy77]

Regards the crumb, I have no idea. The store has re bagged a bigger order which is not labeled. I think i will take it away from them and replace with greens

 

[RunGuy77]

Thank you for all the advice. It's truly appreciated.

 

[Hybridchucks]

No chick crumb is needed.......
Awwww so cute!

 

[EggSighted4Life]

Drakes will, from my understanding attack ducklings. In the wild they hang around while the hen builds a nest but then go hang with other drakes while she broods. In an environment where they can't get away, it can be an issue. Roosters don't *usually* have that issue as their instinct is often to protect their offspring.

The reason unmedicated is absolutely needed is because ducklings go through more feed than chicks do. You can call the feed store and ask them which it is. They should know and be able to tell you. Plus you might mention that including it on the label could help other customers as well.

Greens and oats will be OK ONLY for a short time. They are low in protein and thiamine/niacin. Before long you will have failing ducklings. People think lettuce is nutritious, when in fact it's mostly water. Peas are nice temporary option. Just make sure you get (if yours isn't already) the right feed today and it won't be a problem. Also they may need a little grit with other introductions than chick feed which is very processed and small/ ground down already. But if they are under mama, they are likely to have access to grit in the dirt. I would feed a little scrambled eggs, they are a complete nutrition package. Or if you have flock raiser, they can eat that. All your birds can eat flock raiser or chick starter as long as you provide oyster shell on the side for the layers. I have chickens of all ages and genders plus ducklings. Flock raiser is a happy medium to not have to worry about feeding everybody separately.

Your tribe is very lovely!

 

[Hybridchucks]

agreed