Why Did my Ducklings Randomly Die

[Duckopolis]

Everything was going fine a few hours ago. My twenty ducklings had food, water, everything. I checked back on them, and five were DEAD just a few hours later. What might have caused this! I am really devastated of what happened. I only have fifteen now.

 

[the duck whisperer]

This has happened to me several times in the past. I could never figure out why, but some reasons could be disease, lack of space, drafts, too cold/hot, or birth defects, even. Watch them every hour or so for a little while, make sure there are no signs of illness (runny nose/eyes, lack of energy, not eating or drinking, etc.). Then check to see if the size of the enclosure is big enough for the amount of ducklings you have. I lost several a few years ago because I was keeping them in too small of a tub, and they were overcrowded. Although there shouldn't be a draft, make sure they have plenty of ventilation, and dry bedding constantly. If the bedding is soaked from water, they could get pneumonia, and become ill and die. Make sure it is not too hot or cold. The temperature they need varies depending on the age. Also, how old are they? Day olds and younger ones are so fragile, I always lose at least one or two from each batch, unfortunately. Thats about all I know, given the info you've provided. I hope they are doing better. Best of luck.

 

[Duckopolis]

Thanks for the response. I just lost another one this morning. I am guessing it was because the bedding wasn't dry. They are two weeks old.