New and Scared Ducks

[Careta]

Hi Everybody,

I picked up an adorable appleyard couple yesterday. It's my first ducks and they are really scared. Can anyone give me some hints on how to make their first days less traumatic? At the moment they are shut in our coop as I thought that might make them feel more secure though I was also thinking that maybe letting them our (our property is small and enclosed) they will get over their fright by digging and walking around. We also have a pool prepared for them and were wondering if we should introduce them to that? Or should we wait for them to feel happy in the coop first?

You advice would be really appreciated as at the moment they are huddled up in the corner not looking very happy. It's hard for me to tell if they are eating as I don't want to get too close and scare them. They are drinking though.

 

[Careta]

I forgot to mention. They are about 7 months old and were raised with other ducks but with quite a lot of human contact.

 

[melissamerry]

Treats are always a duck-perk-me-up. I would suggest peas, romain lettuce, chopped up tomatos. Mine go crazy over dried cat food and red bell peppers.

I'm not sure what the proper protocol is for integrating ducks into a new home. I do know that my ducks love love love their pool. So maybe with some supervision let them go for a swim? That might put their nerves at ease. I'd toss some treats in their pool for them.

Hope all go well! We'd love to see pictures