Nesting Mom with New Ducks

[Joy Jonsdotter]

Hi,
I have 7 ducks, 4 1 year olds and 3 7 weeks old. The little ones are big enough to go into the outside pen with the adults, so last night I tried to move the little out. One of my olders is nesting, and was fine with the new girls for about five minutes. Then, all of a sudden, she freaked out, ruffling her feathers and biting one of the little. It was late and I wasn't sure what to do, so I brought the littles back inside. How should I proceed? I'd like them out before the end of the week since I'm going on a trip and I don't want my dad to have to take care of two groups of birds.

 

[sourland]

You may have to separate them temporarily. It is normal for a setting hen to 'protect' her nest from 'strangers'. Good luck in resolving this.

 

[KaleIAm]

Some members have success with a see through barrier as an in between phase. Please let us know how it goes!

 

[AHoags]

I've had success integrating my new ducks with a see-through barrier for about a week. This protects them from the older ducks and allows the older ducks to get used to their presence. Good luck!