They really aren't that bright...

[Kelly1970]

My ducks act like that towards the rest of my family.Since I'm the main caregiver and spend quality time with them,they don't run from me etc. My opinion is that they are very smart animals.
Mom to two Silver Applyard drakes 18 wks old

 

[redstarmama]

Well said and I find this to be very true. I have a small flock of 14 ducks and this is EXACTLY how I have handled them. Despite that- they are not lap buddies. I respect them, their space and their species. When I come into their coop- of course they huddle. It's not even routine that I am in there WITH them. lol If I chase them- yes they run (I do not intentionally run at them- I have kids and sometimes running happens and the ducks are unfortunately in the crosshairs of that. Rare but has happened.). I find ducks to be extremely intelligent. I think they are like feathered ninjas. When they see a bird in the sky- the entire flock with seize up. No sound, not a movement- that's smart! They know if I am walking around with the big giant metal feeder- that I have goodies. If I shake it- they come out of the water- the KNOW what is in that thing! It's hilarious. The day I stopped expecting them to be like dogs, was the day I started appreciating them as ducks.

And staying low in height is true for ALL of my birds. My geese, chickens and ducks all appreciate it when I sit down and move slowly. All of them will walk right up to me. Even if I don't have a treat they will just hang out by me.

X2

I find that the ducks love my attention now. Nod, my drake, will follow me all around the yard and wait to be picked up. For my ducks food doesn't seem to be the motivator, the routine is the key. Right down to my yelling "Ducks!" each morning from my bedroom window after my DH lets them out. Every day is the same...