What to do when ducks first hatch?

[eric1]

I am currently in Australia just out side of Mackay and I have a number of free range ducks sitting on eggs. Previosly when the eggs have hatched they have all been taken by Crows whithin minuets.Any advice on how to keep the crows away?

 

[Miss Lydia]

I am currently in Australia just out side of Mackay and I have a number of free range ducks sitting on eggs. Previosly when the eggs have hatched they have all been taken by Crows whithin minuets.Any advice on how to keep the crows away?

The only way to save the ducklings is to keep them and mamas inside safe fencing with cover till at least 4 weeks old. Crows magpies etc are not going to leave them alone if they know there's a free meal to be had...

 

[eric1]

good news Duck came off her nest with 10 ducklings and took them for a swim in the dam, crows came about 30 of them and took 1 duckling. Mother Duck ran for the feed shed with the remainingide. Shut the door and now all safe in with Mum.