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releasing ducks into the wild?

Discussion in 'Ducks' started by spish, Jun 21, 2010.

Most Liked Posts
  1. Jun 21, 2010 #1
    spish

    spish De Regenboog Kippetjes

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    so the 4 ducklings the cat brought in are all feathered up and getting restless out there. we've tried to have minimal contact with them and let them 'find' there own food as much as possible. but now the time has come where they are out growing the enclosure (they are 6 weeks old) shall i just open the door and let them 'come and go' ?
     
  2. Jun 21, 2010 #2
    La Mike

    La Mike (Always Slightly Off)

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    What type ducks are they
    But if they cant fly yet its not safe for them in the wild yet
     
  3. Jun 21, 2010 #3
    spish

    spish De Regenboog Kippetjes

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    they are mallards. no they cant fly yet. we live on the edge of a river and ive seen so many ducks around the same age/size, thought maybe they would like to go and join them? if not i suppose i'll have to find something bigger for them
     
  4. Jun 21, 2010 #4
    Mom 2em All

    Mom 2em All Songster

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    There is not an adult bird to protect them or teach them how to fend for themselves or to avoid predators. If you release them now they will be unable to fly away if they are picked on by the other ducks or if there is danger and they will die.
     
  5. Jun 21, 2010 #5
    Wifezilla

    Wifezilla Positively Ducky

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    Ducks don't always play nice even if they are in the same age group. Wait until they can fly.
     
  6. Jun 21, 2010 #6
    katharinad

    katharinad Overrun with chickens

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    I had a mallard rescue duck. She stayed several months. They are not good at flying right a way and have to build up wing strength first by practicing. Best for now would be to give access to an outdoor, but enclosed back yard. They will fly out, but they will also fly back in. The first time my wild duck flew was with a crash landing on the roof. Then she called me like something killed her. Only to see her walk up and down on the roof trying to figure out how to get back down. It was hilarious. They will need a pool to practice their swimming and even to sleep in the water. Let them fly over the property, because that is how they learn about the area. Eventually they will fly away when it is time for them. Just don't rush it, they will know when it is right for them. Be prepared that they may stay for up to 4 months.
     

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