Unfriendly Birds

[memandthebirds]

I've owned my Pekin, Frand, for a little over a month now and she has yet to warm up to me. When I bought her she was a lot older than my Runner had been and clearly hadn't been handled much, but I thought that would go away.

Is there anything I can do to gain her trust or at least make it easier on me when handling her? I've tried constant handling and hand feeding an even demonstration of affection with my Runner thinking she would catch on, but she's still on the defensive side.

 

[chickens really]

Ducks don't like to be handled, especially the ones that were never handled. Sit quietly and let them come to you as you toss out treats. Peas work great. The more you chase them and catch them the less they will trust you..

 

[memandthebirds]

I suppose I'll have to start keeping peas on me. Most of the time she just comes over for food and then runs off, hopeful she'll warm up.

 

[Blue Crow]

try doling the treats out slowly - maybe bringing a book or e reader and pick a thing, and hold out a treat every time the thing happens; like every time you turn the page or at the end of every paragraph or some such.

 

[memandthebirds]

That's actually a really good idea since I've got several unread books piled up.

She's very anxious though, just sitting near her and maybe touching her gently a couple times makes her breathe heavy, sometimes open-mouthed. It makes me worry about her.

 

[Blue Crow]

that's a pretty normal prey animal response, just give her time, the fact that she isn't scooting off is good.

I know I'm a fiddler and can't be in the duck pen five minutes with out poking, petting or snuggling someone if I don't watch myself but just sitting there and letting them see you and approach one their terms does a lot for them feeling comfortable.