Outdoor pen help

[Ingersolls]

I am new to ducks, since getting an injured runner. She is on strict rest for the next 2 weeks before a re check with the Dr. then if all is well she will be able to go out to a pen.
Im wondering what size would be good for a runner. I was thinking about a 10X10 pen.

 

[Eroc1_1]

Is that your only duck? If so, I would say that would be fine for a pen size.

 

[Ingersolls]

Yeah she is my only duck. Im thinking about getting her a mate or friend but thats it. How many would a 10X10 hold? Is there a general rule of thumb for ducks like so many feet per duck?

 

[veronicasmom]

10x10 would be okay for two, especially if you can let them out to free range for a while daily. It will be a little tight with a swimming pool and shelter though if they are to be in it all day and night. And it will be messy very quickly. JMO

 

[Ingersolls]

ok thanks! I was wondering about free run during the day. Seeing that she is an adult rescue and Im "the bad guy" because I have been having to give her meds everyday. Whould she come back to me? How would I go about getting her used to free run?

 

[Eroc1_1]

Quote:
I think she would be very happy with another duck since they are more social creatures. They say that you should have about 4 sq/ft per duck in a shelter with at least an additional 20 sq/ft per duck if they are confined in a pen - depends on who you talk to though. More space equals a less messy yard and happier ducks. I hope that helps.

 

[Ingersolls]

It does thank you!
What about training her to like me and come back to me so I can give her free run during the day?

 

[Eroc1_1]

Quote:
Peas. Build trust with treats.

 

[TLWR]

While she is confined, give her lots of treats. Then you are the treat machine. Spend as much time just sitting and hanging out with her so she can see you aren't really a threat.

 

[Ingersolls]

I will start doing that. Right now when I go near her she just quacks her head off and usually wont stop until I leave. She also wags her tail, not siure if that means anything or not?