Raising an Orphaned Chick?

[Billiegoat6114]

Hi y'all!
My neighbor had a batch of chicks where all but one died. She can't bring herself to keep the surviving chick. I don't raise chickens, but I do raise waterfowl. I was wondering if it would be possible to integrate the chick into my flock?
Many thanks,
-Billie

 

[CannedMonster]

You may want to post this in the duck thread too.
I’m not sure myself but I’d worry about any drakes you might have.

 

[Billiegoat6114]

You may want to post this in the duck thread too.
I’m not sure myself but I’d worry about any drakes you might have.

I only have female ducks. I have a Flock of 6 at the moment - 5 small ducks and 1 guard goose.
Thanks for the advice! - I'll post this in the duck thread too!

 

[CannedMonster]

I know it would be good for the chick to have a friend it’s own age.
Is it possible for you to get another chick friend for it?
I’ve even heard of chicks and ducklings raised together.

 

[Billiegoat6114]

I know it would be good for the chick to have a friend it’s own age.
Is it possible for you to get another chick friend for it?
I’ve even heard of chicks and ducklings raised together.

I'm not sure if I would be able too - all the hatcheries near me aren't really selling chicks this time of year. I could possibly order one online?

 

[CannedMonster]

I'm not sure if I would be able too - all the hatcheries near me aren't really selling chicks this time of year. I could possibly order one online?

You can get a minimum of 3 chicks from Meyer and Cackle hatcheries.
The shipping is about $35 for Meyer I believe.
I’m not sure what Cackle’s shipping is but I think $20?
You would want to get any breed(s) that is available ASAP so they’re not too far apart in age.
I ordered from Meyer two batches of chicks 1 week apart and I integrated them very easily after a few days.

 

[CannedMonster]

Or you could check your local Craigslist.
Or even post on Craigslist saying that you need a couple of young chicks because you have a loner.

 

[Billiegoat6114]

Or you could check your local Craigslist.
Or even post on Craigslist saying that you need a couple of young chicks because you have a loner.

Great idea! Will do!