Help! Stuck duckling hatching, mother abandoned,now what?

[kaumlauf]

Our 1st time mother Black Swede Cross duck successfully hatched 5 ducklings. Number 6 was part way out of egg, and she has abandoned it in order to care for the other 5. We are helping #6 hatch. It's hatched but weak. Should we keep it warm under a bulb (if so, what temp?) or just room temp? Anything else we should do?
Thanks!

 

[GitaBooks]

Chicks or ducklings that hatch weak may not make it, but there is always hope!
Keep it at around 90-98 F in a box where it can get away from the heat if it wants. Give it an easy floor for gripping, such as paper towels. Make sure it has fresh, clean water and some starter food. Help it use its legs if you can, but be gentle. If it strengthens quick enough you could slip it back under its mother again.
The yolk will keep it healthy for a few days, so don't worry if it doesn't eat right away.

Hope everything turns out okay!

 

[kaumlauf]

Thank you!

 

[kaumlauf]

He made it through the night and was trying to walk this morning, and having trouble. I kept the temp at around 90-95. his eyes have opened too. We snuck him in the mothers nest while she was being distracted by my husband...and she is none the wiser for he- he has blended right in. He is still weakeer than the others, but we're hopeful he'll eventually strengthen...he's eating, drinking and happy to have a family.

 

[GitaBooks]

Awesome! I'm really glad.

Keep an eye out that it doesn't get spraddle leg, since weak chicks can get it.

 

[kaumlauf]

It seems to be walking fine, but can't always keep up.
"Spraddle Leg"...such a vivid image.