- May 25, 2009
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I've got 6 mallard ducklings I've raised from day old--5 are hatchery stock, one is wild(not sure though, dog brought the day old wild one in)--the "wild" one is 2 weeks older than the others and she's spreading her wings--almost lifted off the ground this AM. My question is: I'm getting pressure from my brother-in-law to put them on his pond so they can see other wild ducks and take off. I told him they aren't ready (since 5 are for sure not ready to fly yet, and the other who is close to flying doesn't seem to want to leave) and quite honestly, I'd love for them to stick around. I've got a warm hen house (with resident hens) and the ducklings seem to be inclined to follow the hens in at night--they go to the house w/the hens, but I've been keeping them in a large dog crate at night. What is the best for these ducks? They come when I call, and are so entertaining to watch and I kind of would like to keep them around..... The bottom line, though, is that I want what's best for them--put them on a pond and let them tough it out? Let them make their own decision and take off from here and join with a wild flock? Advice, please.
Thanks so much!
Sharon
Thanks so much!
Sharon