Taming the old?

[Acer]

Im not sure on my duck - Acer's exact age but I know he is not a duckling anymore. Catching him is always a hassle because he lives in with a group of five or so geese and I have to chase all them off to get to him. I was wondering if there was anyway I could get him to trust me? I know chasing him down won't help a bit so I'm trying to figure out a few things to try.
Is there any foods that I could give him when I come up to him? Or anything? Im willing to try just about anything as long as its safe for him.

Thanks a lot.

Acer's Mama.

 

[CalBells]

I'm still a pretty new duck owner, and I got my girls as day olds, so hopefully someone with more experience will chime in as well...

This thread from the stickies has a good list of duck treats you could try

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

I know many people's ducks, mine included, go bonkers for peas. I guess your geese would probably want them too, you could try slugs, or mealworms, the geese might be less interested then the duck?

 

[Amiga]

Congratulations on your flock!

Acer may become more friendly and tolerant of you getting close if you can spend some time with him. I agree that treats help a great deal. Talking to him gently and sitting down with the flock, so that you do not loom over them helps them relax.

It takes a bit of patience, but progress can be made.

Usually it involves getting yourself a nice comfy seat, and perhaps something to read as well as treats. Come in making some sort of friendly noise, sit down, wait a few, then gently toss or place some treats a little ways away from you. Gradually place treats closer to you. Resist the urge to touch the duck till he has been taking treats from close by several times. You may just want to hold treats and let him eat from you hand, and call it good for a while.

 

[Acer]

Thank you! ^^
Ill be sure to try that, it seems to be a helpful method for all species. That;s how I tame cats or make stray dogs trust me. xP