How can I be sure and what do I do if my Rouen Duckling has a fever?

[whynotpoultry]

Hello, I have 4 Roune's and 9 Barred Rock Chicks all around 3 weeks old. One of the ducklings-the sweetest and most calm of the bunch...is I am afraid running a fever. The bill and feet are very warm to the touch. The others bills are the same, cool to the touch and their feet only become warm after snuggling on top of them. They are in a brooding box with a mesh bottom that is pretty clean. As clean as we can keep it with as much as they go. I gave it a dip in water and it acted completely normal splashing and cleaning out its bill. I dried it thoroughly and it snuggled in my lap on a dry towel for a nap. All completely normal. The ducklings have been warm to the touch, remarkably so. This just feel much warmer than I am used to. Am I paranoid or what? The little thing drinks water but not with the veracity of the others, I have not seen it eat. I would appreciate any suggestions or help, thanks so much!

 

[Pyxis]

He's probably okay, but you could ask an experienced duck person (I haven't had many health problems with my ducks so I can't be of much help). Perhaps message someone who is very active in the duck forum, or ask over there? Although if he's feeling good enough to splash around and play in water, he's probably okay. Perhaps try to cool him down a bit by giving him some slightly cool water to swim in and drink? Ducks get really warm, especially their feet and bills. In fact, in parrots, and from what I've experienced, chickens and ducks as well, a warm beak and feet is a sign of relaxation and happiness. If he's really feeling too hot, he'll open his beak and start panting like a dog does.

As a side note, I had a 'rouen' duckling too, but he turned out to really be a flying mallard! Sweet little thing, though.

 

[whynotpoultry]

Thank you so much! I just came in from checking on him. He is running around and eating like the fools they normally do. You saying warm bills and feet meaning they are happy and relaxed after seeing act like a duck should makes this new mommy very happy. Thanks again!