My broody hen hatched 4 ducklings

[farmerRoss]

I know that I'm not thee only person who has put duck eggs under a broody mean hen!!! Well they hatched hours ago and was wondering if they will be okay on large shavings? Also is it okay for them to stay with her, I feel bad taking them away;-(((

 

[JadeComputerGal]

Many, or maybe I should say most, people recommend not using wood shavings for small ducklings because they sometimes eat them, which can be fatal in some cases. On the other hand, I've talked with several people who've used them right from hatching with no apparent ill effects, so I guess it's a judgement call. My husband and I err on the side of caution with things pet-related, so we don't use shavings until they're at least two weeks old. Since you said "large," your shavings may be larger than ours, which I guess would reduce the risk of the ducklings ingesting them. I'm hoping others will respond so you'll get a variety of thoughts on it.

 

[enriquec]

The shavings I use they tried to eat right after birth, and still do I think, but they're too large. Maybe watch them?