We've kept ducks for a while, and one thing that has always impressed me is that no matter how much time they spend in the water, they never appear wet. I noticed that yesterday, my ducks were wet, particularly on the backs of their necks. As in, the individual feathers were obviously holding water and they looked kind of scraggly. We had a downpour for a short time, but still! They're Ducks! "Like water off a duck's back!" My first thought is that somehow they are suddenly not able to properly oil their feathers. Why would that be? No diet change per se, though they've probably had more spring grass lately. Other than that, the ducks appear happy, healthy, and active.
Wish I knew the answer, but I'm bumping this so perhaps someone else who knows the answer will see it
Thank you for the suggestions. They have swimming water, but due to an egg collection failure last year, there are a few more ducks now for the same small pools, and maybe they're not getting enough swimming time. I added some additional tubs, and I'll scatter some BOSS for them. Thanks!
The waterproofing on waterfowl is strucural. If the feathers get too dirty, it interferes with the structure and therfore the waterproofind. Adding a pool and cleaning it regularly will help a lot. My ducks also like to play in the prinkler water..so sometimes I turn it on just for them! The oiling of the feathers, keeps the feathers in good condition...like using conditioner on your hair to keep soft, supple, and keep away split ends! Also, you may want to check for feather mites. These little critters actually eat at the feathers...and thus would also interfere with the structure and therefore the waterproofing. BOSS is very good for feathers- I highly reccomend them as a treat. Good Luck Sandra
