Raising ducklings with baby chicks

[Puddin Fluff]

Thanks for the responses. I was concerned when I read that they needed to get their faces wet. But it looks like they will be okay. They are almost 3 weeks old now. Should I be giving them a pan of water to play in? When do they feather in? The flattering is so different than the chicks.

 

[pawtraitart]

Thanks for the responses. I was concerned when I read that they needed to get their faces wet. But it looks like they will be okay. They are almost 3 weeks old now. Should I be giving them a pan of water to play in? When do they feather in? The flattering is so different than the chicks.

I think it might depend on the type of duck in regards to being able to clean their nares. (nostrils) I have muscovy which love water, but are not a "water" duck per say. If you want to control the water mess, give your babies a pan to play/bathe in a controlled manner so your brooder doesn't become a swamp. Once they are outside, it's easier to provide and less work to clean up. I'm not sure about the feather rate. Mine feather in much slower than chickens.

 

[Puddin Fluff]

Here they are. I am told they are Muscovy. When do you put them outside if they feather slower? I usually put chicks out at 6-8 weeks depending on weather.

 

[pawtraitart]

Here they are. I am told they are Muscovy. When do you put them outside if they feather slower? I usually put chicks out at 6-8 weeks depending on weather.

Adorable! I put mine out at 6 weeks old as long as the night-time temps are above 45 degrees. If it's lower than that, I make sure that I have a 60 watt bulb in one corner of their pen. If you have nice fluffy bedding in there, they will snuggle in and stay warm just fine.