Mallard babies

[msbackwoods]

We have 4 Mallards (3 hens & 1 drake) they had the back toe clipped when we got them. Now we have babies, at what age and how do you go about clipping the toe.

We also have a pair of Black East Indies, she is currently sitting. Is there anything special that you must do to these to indicate domestic?

 

[un-named]

Quote:
The toe is clipped to indicate a domestic bird? Wouldn't a bright leg band be a better indicator, or would that get confused by hunters with the band the DNR puts on wild birds?

 

[msbackwoods]

The Federal Wildlife requires captive breed Mallards to be marked by clipping back toe. I believe it is before 6 weeks of age, just needed feedback from someone that had actually raised them.

 

[dumb_cluck]

I raised Mallards in NY, I am unaware of a toe clipping. Where did you get your info?

 

[msbackwoods]

Its a Federal requirement for captive mallards, there are a couple of different ways to mark them. This link provides some information and other links.

US Fish & Wildlife Service


http://www.fws.gov/pacific/lawenforcement/Sam Stuff/May 2009.html

 

[dumb_cluck]

The key is the phase "in business to raise". If you are raising as pets, no problem.

Also, if they were under federal regulation, then TSC and the others could not legally sell them.

My interpretation is if you raise "wild" mallards for re-sale, then the law applies.