Inside duck and outside duck

[Dysonks]

Hi,

I am worried sick. I have a small female Pekin duck that has been raised inside since we was 2 weeks old. She was also raised by herself.

She was currently put in a cage inside every night but she didn't like that so we put her in the kitchen with some comfy mats at night.

I thought she was lonely because my bf and I started working full time. So I bought her another female duck that is about a month older than she is. She is 3 and a half months.

However, this duck was raised without human contact with chickens and she does not like us very much and my Pekin bullies her now.

I also thought maybe I should start keeping them outside since she will have a friend to keep her company but I do not know if that's a good idea anymore.

I keep thinking the worst is going to happen to her.

Can she turn into an outside duck or will she be miserable?

Also, can the other duck start to like humans or is she unhappy too?

Please, I need advice.

 

[Frindizzle]

My advice is to choose who you love more than do the proper thing for that one

 

[Amiga]

My first thoughts are - keep them both safe, ducks can adjust, it takes time, I think you can help it work out.

There are four individuals involved here - so no one of you can control the whole shebang. But you can be flexible and work to help make the transition.

If what you want is two indoor ducks, I am sure it will work. Establish a side-by-side crate system, or something similar, where they cannot touch each other but will be close. Give treats at the same time, visit is often as you can. If the first duck is used to the run of the house, let her have the run of the house, but let her take turns with the other duck. The other one may always be a little standoffish, but you can find things she likes to do and let her do them. Swimming, playing with toys, treats, music - find something.

If you can find what makes each content, let them be around each other, I think eventually they will at least tolerate each other and find some comfort in each other's company.

It can take a long time. If they are safe, well fed, well watered, in a calm environment, I would not worry while they are making the transition.

 

[Dysonks]

Thank you. They seem to be getting along better now.

I have been keeping them outside all day and inside at night.

 

[Amiga]

Just be sure they are well protected outside (and inside, for that matter).