Injured duckling bill, what to do?

[kmpcfp]

I posted this in the emergencies forum, but havent gotten a response, yet, maybe better luck here:

I am not sure what happened to this week old call duck. I think he may have caught his bill underneath a piece of hardware cloth. He seems to be drinking and eating okay, but definitely looks painful. He is not used to being handled and I don't want to stress out him and mom more than need be, but also don't want to lose him. What should I do??

 

[nuthatched]

Ouch. I wouldn't worry too much, I don't think it's fatal. I'd put a little non pain relieving neosporin on it for a day then let it scab over.

 

[KaleIAm]

I'm sorry this happened to your duckling.

My adult duck got a similar wound on her bill from sticking it through her aviary wires, but it wasn't bloody/fleshy looking. I took my duck to our avian vet who recommended a thin layer of antibacterial ointment without pain medication twice daily. It took months to heal, but there is no sign of it now years later. At check ups the doctor was pleased with the progress, so I assume bills heal slowly.

I don't remember how long our vet had us use the ointment. Probably 3-4 weeks. She seemed pretty casual about it, though - but my duck's bill wasn't an open wound.

Our vet did emphasize keeping my duck's bill, environment, and water extra clean. That part always makes me laugh. Keep a duck clean??