Runner Drake Harassing Ducklings

[Plutopilot]

I recently got new runner ducklings and my drake will not leave them alone. He chases them down, pins them, pulls feathers and even looks like he’s trying to mount them at times by holding them down like he does my female. I keep them separated and only bring the ducklings (6 weeks now) around for a few minutes a day, but he is insistent on harming them. Does this behavior go away when my ducklings get older or is it something that will continue even after they grow up? Wondering how long is customary to keep them apart.

 

[sourland]

I would keep him away from the ducklings until they are much larger. He is very likely trying to breed them and could potentially injure them.

 

[Canadian Wind]

Also, you should do a see-no-touch introduction with them, with either the drake confined, or the ducklings, so they get used to each others' presence. Keep them separate at sleep time, too, so he doesn't injure them (or worse).