Week-old Ducks *still* eating pine shavings

[animalz11]

Hi all,

Our ducks are doing great, but...

They are a week old today, and they are still eating pine shavings. Because I don't want them to make themselves sick, I'm still using paper towels. Any suggestions or thoughts?

Thanks in advance. It's getting a might bit expensive going through several rolls of paper towels a day.

I doubt they would be eating them...
But as for the paper towl problem just use newspaper! You you have shredder you can shred it yourself or you just use the newspaper a few sheets for whatever you keep the ducklings in... everytime I walk past a stand that is giving out the newspapers I take quiet a few, or if you get it delivered even better! then once you're done reading the paper you layer it down for the ducklings and when it gets poopy just take out anything sitting on top of it, roll it up and it holds all the mess! Then just put it in a bag and throw it in a bin!

 

[coonhoundmama87]

I second using newspaper. I always keep them on paper for a week or two. Its very easy to clean up, just roll it up. I then slowly introduce shavings starting where they sleep so they have less interest in eatting them.

 

[jdywntr]

Newspaper shouldn't be used for ducklings as it is too slick and they need traction. You run the risk of them developing spraddle leg on newspaper.

 

[tdgill]

I lost a baby from eating pine shavings...I feel terrible.

 

[Miss Lydia]

I lost a baby from eating pine shavings...I feel terrible.

So sorry, when I had my duckling inside from hatch I have pine shaving under old towels for the first week, when I have had ducklings with mama I never saw them trying to eat the shavings. also very important to keep feed and water out for them 24/7 when very young.

 

[tdgill]

yes, I am very dedicated to keeping feeder full and waterers full. I pick dandelions in my yard and chickweed and cut them up fine and float on their water. I have sprinkled just a tiny bit of chick grit on top of their feed, and a bit in their waterer and also have put a shovelful of sod they can pick at.

I was in a rush and put a big scoop of fine shavings on top of dampened straw till I could get back and properly clean broody mama's and baby's pen.