Khaki Campbell ducklings are coming home today!

[lisa_W]

Our ducklings have arrived at the post office and we just have to pick them up. All of a sudden I feel like a brand new parent! I thought I was prepared but realize how many questions I now have. We have them set up in a little brooder situation with the lamp and a feeder. My waterer did not come in yet so - can I give them a shallow dish with just a little bit of water until I get it? Or maybe I should use the feeder for water and put their food out in a dish instead? I know they can’t really get wet or cold at first. Also - I have young children. Was thinking we could take 3 or 4 times during the day to handle them for a few minutes only - but a friend of mine getting baby chickens said they can’t be handled for two days. Is this true? Any help is much appreciated. Thanks!

 

[NhRN]

Exciting! I will probably feel very similar soon- my order for 4 ducklings is in and I imagine it will be so surreal when I pick them up!! I have not had experience with ducks but have learned a lot and seen some great ideas on this site! I saw this post too late to be of any help I am sure but how are you making out?

 

[EverythingDucks]

Our ducklings have arrived at the post office and we just have to pick them up. All of a sudden I feel like a brand new parent! I thought I was prepared but realize how many questions I now have. We have them set up in a little brooder situation with the lamp and a feeder. My waterer did not come in yet so - can I give them a shallow dish with just a little bit of water until I get it? Or maybe I should use the feeder for water and put their food out in a dish instead? I know they can’t really get wet or cold at first. Also - I have young children. Was thinking we could take 3 or 4 times during the day to handle them for a few minutes only - but a friend of mine getting baby chickens said they can’t be handled for two days. Is this true? Any help is much appreciated. Thanks!

How exciting! You'll have to send some pictures. About handling them (assuming I read correctly) just give them some time to settle in the brooder for the first day about, but after that handle them often or they won't bond as much. I would recommend sitting in a bathroom, (bathrooms are easier to clean), and give them treats (be sure they're ok for their age) or food, and let them come to you. If you're kids are really little then I wouldn't let them hold them when the ducklings are this young. If your kids are like 6-10-ish and they are gentle then you can let them sit with the duckling and teach them how to gently pet and hole them. This way it's safest for both the kids and ducklings.

About the water, you can do this

Can't wait to see pictures lol