Newly hatched duckling not standing

[Laurelm]

Well it's been about 30 hours since "Scooter" hatched. I made hobbles out of a band aide for his spraddle legs. He seems to manage to get from point a to point b but not walking. He does get legs under him and then sometimes they both go out behind him. Is this normal for spraddle legs? Does it just take lots of time before he get the strength to actually stand up? I am getting really attached to this little duck and don't want a negative outcome.

Has anyone else dealt with this in duckling? If so, what was your experience?

Thanks.

 

[froggie71]

You might want to try adding Niacin or Brewers Yeast to the ducklings food. Could be a vitamin deficincy.

 

[becky3086]

Yes, the legs will go out behind him. Just keep setting him back up and bending the legs right. Eventually, he should be able to keep them under him.

 

[Laurelm]

Okay I will. I thought I would unbind his legs today and try letting him swim in the sink. Obviously I'll help him but thought this might encourage him to use his legs and help strengthen them. Can't hurt to try. He's just so cute!

 

[snowmom2559]

Well today he's still not on his feet but looks a little better. After all I read and the help I have gotten on BYC it looks like spraddle legs. I made hobbles from a bandaide last night and put him in my brooder. As I understand it duck legs can be weaker than chicks and he/she may need the hobbles for a week or more.

Well see..I really want him to be okay.

Thank you!

YES! our little Khaki Campbell couldnt walk! we thought it was a niacin deficiency but she showed no other problems. shes 11 days today and has just started walking in short bursts.

 

[Miss Lydia]

All ducklings need extra niacin if fed anything other than duckling starter.