Lost a duck...what to do with the other?

[Number21]

I'm out of town but I just got a phone call that something got into my duck house and ate one of my ducks. There were only two, and they were the best of friends. Now the remaining duck is just out in the yard honking, I feel so bad for her. She is unharmed and is going to be put somewhere else for now in case whatever it was comes back.

What can I do for her? Should I try to get another duck? I know they don't like to be alone. And they were never more than a few inches apart. Now she doesn't know what to do.

Any thoughts? I was thinking about another chick and let her think it's her own, but I don't want the same situation to happen again later. She's already over 5 years old.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Get 2 more? Ducks live pretty long, longer than chickens in my experiences, so at 5 she has a ways to go yet. If you don't want anymore ducks than maybe you can fine it a home.

 

[lomine]

I agree. Just want to add that when/if you get more ducks try to find some that are about the same size. If you get ducklings it will be a long while before they can be put together.

 

[Number21]

Is it likely that they will get along ok if I can find another duck around the same age? I really don't want to have more than 2, they're just suburban backyard ducks. I've noticed on a few occasions a wild mallard would fly in, and they would always run it off in a big hurry. They were very protective of "their" yard, they even ran the dog out.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

It may take some time for a new duck to bond with yours. You won't know how it will goes until you try it.

 

[Number21]

Is there anything special I should do to introduce them? Or just put them together and keep a close eye for a while?

I appreciate the info everyone.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I personally would put them together and see, otherwise separating by a fence is a good way to introduce one. @chickens really hopefully will pop in for some advice.

 

[chickens really]

Hello...What I do is separate in a look no touch pen the First day...Then I put them out to free range together ...Mutiple water stations...Their will be neck tying, chest bumping and a bit of chasing...Nothing too bad..Your Hen is Older so will be Bossy...I would look for another Duck that is at least over 6 months old...Breed does not matter...It might take a few days to get them together full time or it might be simple...They will follow each other ...
Best of luck....