Introducing another Muscovy Drake

[reyecat]

I have one very large, but not very aggressive Muscovy Drake, Elvis.

He's got 4 hens, but I was hoping to add another blood line by introducing another Drake.

So far, no luck. All of the times I've tried introducing new hens or drakes, all have died. the ones that are born here, thrive. But since I don't want inbreeding to be a problem we just eat the offspring so...

Any suggestions?

They are in with the hens.

The last Drake died within a couple of days. he seemed fine but one morning I went down and he was dead. I think he may have starved himself although food was plentiful.

 

[Amiga]

I wish I had some helpful thoughts . . . . Hmmmm.

 

[Going Quackers]

That is just odd... and you've been unable to find the cause? could their be something toxic on the property yours have learn to avoid while a newer one may not ?? have your purchased all new stock from the same place? possible they have issues with their quality?

For inbreeding, it;s not the same as cats or dogs, yes eventually you want new lines but it doesn't have to be that from the get-go. Finally? you only have 4 ducks that is one tight ratio and frankly a new drake especially a mature one up against an established flock? not a good idea, they will fight and you could get end up with one taking all the girls and a drake shut out.

I have a drake heavy Muscovy flock but the underlings all have come in as ducklings and/or hatched here still doesn't provide complete peace but helps establish pecking orders early on.

Basic info.. 2-3 ducks per drake so best not to overload in small flocks, stresses the females and drakes tend to spend more time arguing than breeding.