My ducks are about 3 to 4 months old

[tinny123]

My ducks are scared of everything. I don't understand. They have a big pool to play in and they have been in it and has so much fun, but now they won't go near it. I can hardly get them out of there coop. They have a fenced in area that is safe from predators. I just don't understand. I give them lettuce, in fact I throw it right at them and they are to scared to eat it. Their scared to do anything. What do I do? I feel so bad.

 

[Quatie]

Do you know if it is possible that something happened to scare them? A cat, dog or other potential predator? Chances are something happened to scare them. Birds have good memories and when scared by something, they take a while to get past it. Be patient and give them time.

Encourage them with treats and try not to push them too much. Forcing them into situations they are not ready for yet can scare them more. I would treats they find hard to resist like mealworms. I wouldn't throw it at the lettuce at them, that is likely only going to make things worse. Instead drop it and walk away. You can also sit in the run with them and just be with them. You want to give them time to relax around you.

 

[aart]

How old are they, in weeks or months...and how long have you had them?