Runty duckling

[Sfraker]

I have 14 Welsh Harlequins that all hatched around May 20th. One of them is half the size of the others, still peeps and has not gotten feathers, it’s bill and legs are not changing colors like WH do at this age.

It eats, forages with everyone, is VERY sassy and seems fine in all other ways. It does not let its size stop it from doing everything the others do. I have even seen it boss our big Gander around when the gander was where it wanted to forage!

I am just keeping an eye on it to ensure it is eating and drinking. I don’t think there is much else that can be done, as nothing seems to be wrong, it’s just stunted.

I have been raising WH for 6 years now and I have never seen this before. Has anyone else had this happen? Did the duck ever develop?

The picture is the duckling next to a hatch mate from the same batch.

 

[Miss Lydia]

I have seen this with other breeds to. Sometimes it’s failure to thrive but sounds like your little one is thriving so about all you can do is hope it at least feathers in good before cold weather sets in. Keep us updated on the little one. They are such a beautiful breed.

 

[Sfraker]

I have seen this with other breeds to. Sometimes it’s failure to thrive but sounds like your little one is thriving so about all you can do is hope it at least feathers in good before cold weather sets in. Keep us updated on the little one. They are such a beautiful breed.

We may have a house duck come winter if it doesn’t feather out.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Hey nothing wrong with that. I have 4 right now!