New to Ducks

[LexsPeeps]

I recently traded some bantam chickens for 2 Rouen hens, I have never owned ducks before. Is it normal they won't go in the pond?

 

[Isaac 0]

Yes,It will take them a while to get used to it.

 

[LexsPeeps]

Ok I was worried it would make them sick or something along those lines to not be in the water

 

[gal5150]

As long as they have access to waterers deep enough to clean their nares and eyes, they'll be fine. Ducks are very sketchy about anything novel or new. They just need to settle in. Welcome to duck ownership! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

 

[LexsPeeps]

It is deep enough for sure, thank you for the help. They have been great to have around for sure

 

[gal5150]

Awesome! While they're getting used to the surroundings, put out a couple bins of water deep enough for them to wash their whole head until they start using the pond. I'm curious what you'll think of their eggs! My kids and I prefer them to chicken eggs

 

[LexsPeeps]

I hope they start laying soon I've been excited to try them. I will update this thread when we get our first egg. We have 2 water sport for them to choose from, hopefully that helps

 

[Debs Flock]

I recently traded some bantam chickens for 2 Rouen hens, I have never owned ducks before. Is it normal they won't go in the pond?

Good luck with your hens. I have 2 Rouen females as well. They lay like clockwork.
Please make sure you don't have snapping turtles in the pond. They can severely injure, even kill a duck.

 

[LexsPeeps]

Thats really good to hear about their laying. I have read a lot about snapping turtles injuring ducks, he would sure be dinner if he came to our pond.

 

[CarleeAnn]

My two Ducks don't like their new 40 Gallon pond yet either. When they were younger they could bath in an old fire pit which was shallow, I think they felt comfortable having their feet touch the ground. Mine could probably take turns splashing in the old "tub" but they don't like doing anything without the other and are too big now to share! They love when I overwater the yard, I have some stones down that the water runs over and they can splash in that without getting muddy and an extra large dog bowl (that doesn't knock over) they clean their heads in.