Runner Ducklings Hatched by Mom

[thelastrabbit]

Hi all, our hen has hatched three of 9 or so eggs today! We are excited but worried about survival. Prior to the hatch we were 100% ok with “let nature run its course” and now I’m worried about their survival. Should I just let mom handle her business or should we pull the babies into a brooder? Ugh I really don’t want to lose any babies.

 

[Duckworth]

@Miss Lydia

 

[Miss Lydia]

Can you observe with out upsetting mom? I’d say leave them as long as she is staying put and doesn’t act upset.

 

[Isaac 0]

She has sat there for 28 days straight she deserves the babies.Most mama ducks are going to do a lot better caring for them than us humans.

 

[thelastrabbit]

Yup! That’s what I’m doing now.

 

[Miss Lydia]

I agree most mamas. So just keep an eye on things. Most likely she'll be a great mama and all you'll have to do is provide feed water protection and enjoy.

 

[Going Quackers]

I echo the rest be VERY watchful of new mums, but overall a duck raises a better duck... i have had a few missteps over the years but most of my females have took to task well.

Sadly, loses can happen either way, you can never guarantee 100% survival rates. Good luck!