Why would my ducklings back be bald?

[Kev3242]

I noticed today that my ducklings back is bald and seems to be bleeding. I have 6 khaki barbells and they are like 6 weeks old. What would cause this? They are getting there adult feathers in. There is only one that seems to be bleeding. I put oregano oil and cinnamon oil they are essential oils in there water. I would like to know what is going on with them. Thanks.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Sounds like they are pecking at this ones feathers. What are they eating and what is your set up like? Sometimes boredom can cause this or over crowding. Or just plain bullying. Hard to say but it needs to be addressed especially if they are drawing blood.

When any of my birds have something going on like a wound I use Blue Kote because it disguises the wound, ducks aren't like chickens where they will canablize one of their own, but it does change how the area looks [making area purple] and can keep them from going back to it. Also try hanging romaine lettuce heads in their area so they can have something to do. Exercise can help too.

 

[Kev3242]

Sounds like they are pecking at this ones feathers. What are they eating and what is your set up like? Sometimes boredom can cause this or over crowding. Or just plain bullying. Hard to say but it needs to be addressed especially if they are drawing blood.

When any of my birds have something going on like a wound I use Blue Kote because it disguises the wound, ducks aren't like chickens where they will canablize one of their own, but it does change how the area looks [making area purple] and can keep them from going back to it. Also try hanging romaine lettuce heads in their area so they can have something to do. Exercise can help too.

They are eating 16% layer feed and greens. There set up is in a kiddie pool until they get all there feathers in.

 

[Miss Lydia]

They do not need layer at 6 weeks old layer is only for laying birds not babies or rather non layers too much calcium can cause kidney damage. Best to get them an all flock feed that is formulated for all poultry they can eat this from hatch all the way through life and just offer oyster shell on the side for layers.

6 KC at 6 weeks old in a kiddy pool are probably needing more room and some good ol foraging time. Do you have their outside areas ready for them? if so and you get nice weather put them out side so they can get use to it they will love it and getting to root around in dirt and mud will get their minds off nibbling on another.

 

[Kev3242]

We have there outside ready for them. It just has been to cold at where I live. As soon as it gets warmer I will surely do that for them.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Sounds good let us know how it goes with them.