Mama Duck Attacked!!

[MamacatPatch]

Oh yes I watch them like a hawk!!! I put them on a towel one at a time and dry them a bit before putting them back under the lamp! They're my precious lil babies you know! QUACK! QUACK! Can't wait till they figure out they can go under the water!!!!

Yes I blended some peas yesterday for them. I had four tiny mason jars, two full of water, one full of blended peas and one full of blended meatbird food. This morning the place looked like a train wreck! Water, food, peas EVERYWHERE in the box and on them too!! Just like babies....totally messy. And the peas were gone and half the jar of food.

Today we bought a waterer that is about 2 pints I guess, just right for them and a feeder but it's too big for the box they're in now. After four or five days they're going into a bigger box and then I'll put the bigger feeder in there. By then I will be able to move the incubator and have more space there.

They do respond to my voice but still act scared when I try to pet them or pick them up. I thought they'd bond and imprint on me as their mama? Perhaps in time?

Yeah, this is entirely too much fun!!!

 

[katharinad]

They wont bond like you are their mother. It's basically because they have each other. In a couple of days they will be able to eat whole peas directly out of your hand and that's when they will follow you around. They still will fuzz when you lift them up, but that is nature. I guess lots of time spending and holding each one in your arm will eventually pay off. It did not take it that far with my duckies, but they do run up to me and do follow me around. I can take them for walks on the property. That's all I really wanted. They are not afraid of me, and they do not like pets either. Boy they will grow so fast.
Katharina

 

[chikky]

Mamacat,

Very sweet video! The first one says try back later, but the second one is a hoot. Glad they're doing well.

 

[schellie69]

so glad that this story has a happy ending at least in part great job with the babies.

 

[MamacatPatch]

It was 95 degrees today and will be in the high 80s/90s for the next three days. Is it ok to put the cage with the babies outside since it's so warm, as long as they have shade? Just a thought.

Still no signs of life in the last three eggs.

 

[katharinad]

I would wait until they are at least one week old. I always wait until they are 2 weeks old and then I use two dog pens for them to run around for a bit. I guess it is a personal choice. You need to watch out for flying predators or snakes. They can swoop them up because they are still so small. On the other hand it may be fun being out with them for a little bit. Make sure they cannot get away from you. They can slip through small opening easily. Sitting outside in the cage may not be a bad idea. Fresh air is always good, and it helps when the house doesn't smell.

I took another look at the remaining eggs and think they are a no go. I hate to give up on any egg. Two look like they have blood rings, which usually means they've died along the way. They look like they are 3 weeks old, but that could also be the time they quit. The one with the two air pockets does not look good either, and the chances are not to good if there is something alive in it. Watch out for green or black looking discolorations inside, they can be growing bacteria.

Send me some heat we are freezing out here.

Katharina

 

[MamacatPatch]

I think you're right about the three eggs. That's my 'gut' feeling now too. I think I'll just toss them. I don't want to know if there is or was a duck in there.

The babies would stay in their box inside the big bird cage when outside. They cannot get out and nothing can get in except some flies or bugs. They would actually just be on our deck which is also covered. We put our cockatiels and parakeets out there today too and are leaving them out since it is only getting down into the high 60s tonight. Thought the fresh air would do the babies some good! And while they're outside I'll clean out the incubator and set up their new home in a BIG box! They are already cramped in the bird cage! The hard part is keeping them warm since our A/C is on all day now and they are already in the warmest area of the house with the heat lamp on them!

 

[chickboss]

You could always see if they float again, and wiggle. If you're going to toss them anyway, why not? You're probably right though, I would think you would see some action by now. I am so happy for your little ducklings! I am so glad you decided to give it a go. I think, considering what they have been through, your hatch rate was excellent. Congratulations again!!

 

[ChickenCrazed]

Congratulations...Your babies are adorable and such little miracles!...Enjoy!

~Laura

 

[Jkioneil]

quick question what is a good recipie for duck mash? for babies?