How to introduce new ducks

Contolini6

In the Brooder
Jun 6, 2017
28
20
29
Colorado
We have four ducks-- two little ones about a week and a half old, and two bigger ones about a month old. When we first brought the little ones home, the big ones were mean to them, so we have been keeping the two sets separated. Does anyone have advice on how to start socializing and introducing them to each other? Are they still too young? We really do want them to be able to live together.
 
Are they able to see each other? If not put them together with a wire fence between so they can get used to each other. Watch their behavior and when the older ones stop paying attention to the little ones, start putting them together for short periods of time.
 
That's what we are doing right now (the wire fence thing.) The big ducks seem mildly interested from time to time but mostly just ignore the little ones. They did sit right by the fence and watch them for a while.
 
I would try a short visit and see how it goes. You can provide a distraction like their favorite treat or some water to swim/splash in.
 
I'm having a similar problem. I introduced two Welsh Harlequin "teenagers" to my four adult White Layers three weeks ago (over the course of a few days). The adults still chase the teens away from the food and water, and even pin them against the garden fence or chase them into the woods. I was hoping that the issue would resolve by now, but it hasn't. The teens initially wanted to be with the adult ducks, but are now afraid of them. Any suggestions?
 
I'd say once the younger ones have their adult feathers put them together. Gonna be a bit of bullying regardless until they figure out their pecking order.
 
I introduce my Ducks first in separate pens depending on age of the Duck Im introducing....Yesterday I added a Call Drake and two 7 week old Appleyard....I introduced free ranging and then locked them all into the pen for the night...No one is fighting although they do keep to themselves.....Putting human emotions on birds does not work...Sex and age are factors also...During mating season is not a time for introductions if your Drake is hormonal....
 
You want to be careful not to introduce them too soon. A few days is probably not enough time. Having multiple feed and water stations will help relieve some tension.
 

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