Quackers Not Using Their Pool...

[OldGuy43]

Even when I throw peas in it. They'll get near it, but won't go in. I don't understand. I've cleaned it. They usually love that. They seem healthy, just not swimming. The only thing that has changed is a different pump.

 

[Amiga]

Hmmm.

How long has it been since you changed the pump? Could you stand in the pool and see if there is any vibration, or (I hope not) short circuit? Just brainstorming. I doubt the short circuit is possible. Don't hurt yourself.

Or maybe you have a multimeter or voltmeter or some kind of instrument you can use?

 

[OldGuy43]

Hmmm.

How long has it been since you changed the pump? Could you stand in the pool and see if there is any vibration, or (I hope not) short circuit? Just brainstorming. I doubt the short circuit is possible. Don't hurt yourself.

Or maybe you have a multimeter or voltmeter or some kind of instrument you can use?

The problem started about the same time I changed the pump. No short. I installed a GFI outlet for that very reason and I have been in the water with the pump running. There doesn't seem to be any vibration. The chickens will pick the floating peas off the top of the water.

 

[Amiga]

I am going to guess you have some conservative ducks who are going to be cautious but will eventually get back in the pool. Funny ducks!

 

[OldGuy43]

I am going to guess you have some conservative ducks who are going to be cautious but will eventually get back in the pool. Funny ducks!

That's what I'm hoping. One more important note that I forgot to mention; They won't get in even if I leave the pump turned off. I would think that would eliminate the pump noise or vibration as a possible cause.

Another thing OldGal and I have tried is herding them into the pool. No luck. They avoid it like the plague.

Maybe I should try removing the pump and shower for a day or two?

 

[Amiga]

I would. Does the pump look different than the old one?

I have had my ducks complain about me moving things around in the basement next to their pen. They told me that placing any additional objects higher than their heads was not allowed.

 

[Kevin565]

Herding them in can actually cause more psychological damage and can prolong them from not coming in. I would just continue to throw peas in there and let them stay near it. Also adding some minnows in there can often get their attention enough to go in.

 

[OldGuy43]

I would. Does the pump look different than the old one?

I have had my ducks complain about me moving things around in the basement next to their pen. They told me that placing any additional objects higher than their heads was not allowed.

Not really, both pumps are black submersibles. Didn't change anything else.

Herding them in can actually cause more psychological damage and can prolong them from not coming in. I would just continue to throw peas in there and let them stay near it. Also adding some minnows in there can often get their attention enough to go in.

Sounds like a plan. I think I'll clean the pool tomorrow morning and leave the pump out and see what happens.

 

[OldGuy43]

I cleaned out the pool and refilled it this morning. I DID NOT put the pump and shower/filter in. The girls jumped in the pool when there was only about 6" of water in it with Sunsinger leading the way.

Now I'm really confused. They used to love the shower.

 

[Haunted55]

Does the pump by any chance look like it might be a turtle? Round and squat?