socializing

[angeldemaree]

i just recently got two cayugas from a local farm and ranch store. i took them outside for the first time today and they are currently exploring the outside life.. i have them in a wire run that does have rectangle openings,but they are too big to escape through, but it is not stopping them from trying. I am a little worried that they are so skittish and trying to squeeze through the holes.. so i guess i have two questions...
1/ is it safe to have them in there for a few hours or should i be worried about them getting stuck and struggling in the holes?
2/ how do i socialize them better so they are not so skittish and want to escape?

 

[jonhpdx]

First of all...

1). I wouldn't worry about it too much since once you're not with them they probably won't struggle to get through the bars as much. My ducks had the same reaction when I cornered them to pick them up, so I have a feeling they're just trying to use any means necessary to escape the "big bad human".

2). I've found that being in close vicinity with your ducks is a good way to socialize them. Just go into the pen you have them in, sit down with a book/magazine/tablet/whatever, and just be with them. The more you're with them, the more they'll become familiar with you. You don't need to constantly be in contact with them, although I have found that holding one closely and letting it sit on my chest helps calm it down (maybe this is just with my birds...). Talk to them in a soft and calming voice so that they get used to the sound of you and will know what to expect when they hear that voice in the future.

It's important not to force them to love you, it's something that will happen over time if you're persistent enough.

Another thing is ducks LOVE treats. The way to a duck's heart is through its stomach. If you sit in their cage and feed them treats, that will certainly help things along. Make sure you're rewarding good behavior and not bad behavior.

I've found that Cayugas have some of the best temperaments of any duck breed. Mine is generally a lot calmer and relaxed than the rest of my flock, so this will probably be easier than with a lot of other ducks.

And--of course--enjoy them! They're funny little birds with lots of personality!

 

[angeldemaree]

what is a good snack for a young duck

 

[jonhpdx]

I've given my ducks lettuce (not iceberg lettuce) and peas. Here's a thread that should give you all the details:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/242460/the-ultimate-list-of-duck-treats-and-supplements