Raising Indian Runner alone -- Any advice?

[KanaKukkula]

Our shipment of 9 Indian Runners arrived today, and to our horror 8 of the 9 were dead (from Meyer Hatchery). Thus we have one duckling to raise. It is drinking and eating well so far, but it seems so lonely. We placed a little rubber ducky with it, but the Runner largely ignores it. We were thinking of placing a radio near its quarters. We check on it frequently, but beyond that, any ideas? We have a pair of adult Emben geese and 10 five-week old chicks, but we don't think they would be suitable until the duckling is much older. Thanks for any advice, KanaKukkula, PA

 

[SilverLaceWy]

Wow, sorry to hear that. I am a newbie to all this I dont have any suggestions.
Will they send you replacements though?

 

[sourland]

Place a mirror where the duckling can see and talk to it's reflection. Is Meyer Hatchery going to replace the other ducklings?

 

[KanaKukkula]

The mirror is a nice idea -- thanks. Meyer is willing to send replacements, but you can understand why I will take the refund instead. This is my second shipment from Meyer with dead birds: 1/3 of a chick order a month ago. The Runner is doing well this morning; I guess he likes the soft rock radio station. KanaKukkula

 

[Miss Lydia]

Start taking your duckling out during the day some and letting the geese meet it through fencing so they don't accidentally step on it, I bet you in a few weeks they will adopt it, I only had a gander last year and ducklings hatching and he was so gentle and papa goose to them all. and a nice soft stuffed animals would be best for lil duckling. This also gives you time to bond with it too.

 

[KanaKukkula]

The duckling is doing well, sits in front of its mirror and talks to himself, and eats from our hands. Good idea about introducing it gradually, not only to the geese but also to the chicks, who are much younger. Thanks for ideas. KanaKukkula