Texture of Duckling

[weebles&wobblesmom]

Sorry I'm gonna be a pain until my first duckling grows up. I was noticing that he/she does not seem to be as "soft" as he/she was when I first got her. She/he's a little over a week old and I have noticed that she/he's getting whiter (Pekin). I'm assuming the "courseness" is because the feathers are starting to grow.

Is this correct or am I just worring too much? I have food and water plus a small pool in the container, as well as a heat lamp.

Thanks

 

[Duckles]

My fiance and I used to think they were just dirty and their little fluffy feathers were all caked together on their bellies. But yes they're fine, those are feathers. They're prickly for a while and then super smooth and soft!

 

[Anya_K]

Mine are like that as well.
Im pretty sure its normal

 

[weebles&wobblesmom]

Ok Thanks. I'm really nervous for some reason. This little guy was rejected because nobody thought he would live, that's how I got him (it. not sure yet of sex). I guess that's why I worry so much. Never had a duck or chick before. It's been over a week, but still learning everything.

Thanks again.

 

[Amiga]

My runners are 13 months old now. Their texture changed quite a bit the first three months. Adult feathers came in wrapped in blue waxy straws, for a while they felt more like furry buffalo than downy ducklings or silky feathered adults. Their "tween" stage was really cute - big feet, big bills, small wings, some feathers on their bellies, "fur" on their backs and necks, and a few down feathers sticking out here and there. Just too adorable!

 

[weebles&wobblesmom]

Hmmm. I remember those years.....LOL He/she is really getting big just in the week I've had him/her. I was noticing that this morning.

 

[Amiga]

Oh, they grow so quickly!!!!