Question

[Mgt19]

I have 5 buff orpington ducks who will turn a month old next week. Still very skittish. We try to gently handle them everyday so they will get used to us. Any suggestions?

 

[FowlProtector]

Buff Orpington ducks can be a bit shy at first, but with patience and consistency, they’ll warm up to you in no time. Instead of always picking them up, try sitting quietly near them. Let them get used to your presence without feeling scared. Giving them small treats like peas, mealworms, or chopped lettuce helps build trust.

Talking to them softly and moving gently can make a big difference. Ducks love calm, repetitive speech and predictable movements. Instead of reaching out, hold out your hand with treats and let them come to you when they’re ready.

When handling them, support their bodies and avoid sudden grabs. Using a towel can sometimes help them feel more secure. Ducks love routine, so try to repeat these interactions every day. Over time, they’ll learn to trust you and maybe even look forward to your company.

This is what I did with my Indian runners, and they loved it!

 

[FowlProtector]

I would also tag @Jenbirdee she is the duck expert.

 

[Jenbirdee]

Buff Orpington ducks can be a bit shy at first, but with patience and consistency, they’ll warm up to you in no time. Instead of always picking them up, try sitting quietly near them. Let them get used to your presence without feeling scared. Giving them small treats like peas, mealworms, or chopped lettuce helps build trust.

Talking to them softly and moving gently can make a big difference. Ducks love calm, repetitive speech and predictable movements. Instead of reaching out, hold out your hand with treats and let them come to you when they’re ready.

When handling them, support their bodies and avoid sudden grabs. Using a towel can sometimes help them feel more secure. Ducks love routine, so try to repeat these interactions every day. Over time, they’ll learn to trust you and maybe even look forward to your company.

This is what I did with my Indian runners, and they loved it!

this is a good answer! But you have to keep it up because if you stop, they eventually get less friendly with you… and each duck has its own personality. You will find that some will be friendlier than others.

 

[Jenbirdee]

I would also tag @Jenbirdee she is the duck expert.

Nice of you to say but I’m still learning some things too! I guess we never stop learning

 

[FowlProtector]

Nice of you to say but I’m still learning some things too! I guess we never stop learning

You’ve always helped me with my ducks!
That’s right, we’re always learning and I love it!

 

[Mgt19]

Buff Orpington ducks can be a bit shy at first, but with patience and consistency, they’ll warm up to you in no time. Instead of always picking them up, try sitting quietly near them. Let them get used to your presence without feeling scared. Giving them small treats like peas, mealworms, or chopped lettuce helps build trust.

Talking to them softly and moving gently can make a big difference. Ducks love calm, repetitive speech and predictable movements. Instead of reaching out, hold out your hand with treats and let them come to you when they’re ready.

When handling them, support their bodies and avoid sudden grabs. Using a towel can sometimes help them feel more secure. Ducks love routine, so try to repeat these interactions every day. Over time, they’ll learn to trust you and maybe even look forward to your company.

This is what I did with my Indian runners, and they loved it!

Thanks very helpful!

 

[FowlProtector]

Thanks very helpful!

Glad to help!