Mallard Duck Advice Required Please

[Davidvanas]

@Miss Lydia . I don't know how long its been this way unfortunately. I would say, just based on my knowledge, that he is between 5 and 7 weeks old.

I tried to massage while soaking. He seemed uncomfortable with me doing it, but maybe it is just a new feeling. You are right, although I will not give up hope and will continue the treatment mentioned above, I suspect he will never have full use of that leg and will need to be cared for in a protected home environment.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Well I'd say he is in the right place for care. Will you find him another home or will he stay with you? do you know sex yet. Usually they are hatched with the slipped tendon or it happens pretty quick after hatch so being the duckling is that age it your most likely right. I'm sure those nice warm soaks feel good. I am surprised the exotic vet didn't try to fix the tendon.

 

[Davidvanas]

I am still unsure whether to keep him or not, I very carefully tried to introduce him to the muscovies under controlled circumstances, however the glint in their eyes made me think otherwise! If I don't keep him, I will make sure that whoever homes him is absolutely competent to ensure his care. I am part of a rescue group so amongst us we will be able to home him if it comes to that.

I don't know the sex as yet, the previous owner refers to it as a male, hence the pronoun. But looking at the feathering I actually suspect female.

I am very suspect of the avian vet - as soon as you mentioned the slipped tendon the symptoms immediately made sense. I am going to try to get a second opinion.

 

[chickens really]

Well sadly in my opinion that leg will never be normal.
It's fused in that position at this age.
Best wishes finding a good home for it.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Please post update when you get a second opinion!

 

[Miss Lydia]

How your new rescue doing today? @Davidvanas