Mandarin Duck thread ( for posting pictures and discussing)

[southern oaks]

I am waiting, but I don't have mandarins, woodies, or hottentots laying yet My mandarin drake was IN the box with the hen today, which I thought was odd, but nothing was in there when they both got out. I am hoping it is coming on soon.

I thought it was because of our weather being so bad for so long. But I have seen others farther north than I am that are getting eggs. sigh!

 

[chickenlisa]

My 1 nestbox has a Mandarin hen and eggs in it- she's been setting almost a week now, but I'm not sure which day was day 1. There were at least 9 eggs in it when I took these pics last week. I've got 2 other females and not sure if they laid any of these eggs. I've only got 1 male right now and again not sure if he is just bonded to 1 of them or likes them all.

Her wing- I surprised her and she surprised me- I didn't know she was in there when I stuck the camera in to snap a pic!

the eggs sort of buried and covered up, but I counted at least 9 without moving them or upsetting them...

 

[Valley quail breeder]

My Mandarin's started laying a couple days ago hope there fertile. Was wondering can you leave the drake in the aviary when the duckings hatch will he bother them?

 

[destinduck]

He wont bother them, Great pic BTW, I would gently lift the eggs out and add some more pine straw in the bottom so the eggs dont have a chance of busting on the bottom though.

 

[Valley quail breeder]

Good idea, Thanks for the info.

 

[southern oaks]

IS THIS NORMAL??? My mandarin hen has gone to the box serveral times. She has not laid. But,,,, my question is:: is it normal for the drake to go in the box with her. He has done this more than one day. No eggs but he is there. He leaves and comes back...... Can someone help!!!!

 

[Valley quail breeder]

Quote:
I never witnessed mine do that but I have seen where he waits at the base of the ramp till she comes out of the nest box.

 

[KansasKid]

I could get use to this thread.

Editing

 

[destinduck]

Killer Pics Kansas!!!!

I have had the boys go in the box rarely. but not the norm. Most the time they are right on top or if you have a ramp or perch looking in on her. Dont worry when she goes to setting she will keep him out. Hes worried more right now about keeping track of his honey.Especially if there is more than one pair or exta males in the aviary.

 

[southern oaks]

There is an extra drake in there.. I keep looking for a hen but this time of year that is almost impossible. I guess I will sit back and let nature take its course... Thanks for the reply..