we have pet ducks and a large pond,but they haven't seem to want to go in the pond.they are 12 weeks old now !

Answer 1

We have pet ducks as well.

Don't force them to go out on the pond.

You should see the oil on their back before you try to put them out on the pond, to make sure that their feathers will be able to resist the cold water. Chase them down to the edge of the pond and then back off.

Ducks know if the water is safe to get in, and generally if they are ready to get in.

If there is something in the water that will harm them, they may avoid it.

Try buying a kiddie pool from Walmart ($10) and filling it with water and making a little ramp for it. See if they will swim in it first.

Answer 2

It has been a few years since I had ducks, but they will not go into the pond until they get their permanent feathers, not just the down they have when they are born. Also in a pond, you have to watch out for turtles and such and if there is a lot of algea on the pond, it could kill them too.

Answer 3

Hey,
I have had lots of ducks, including geese, and they don't like the water when they are younger, especially when it is deep. I think it is natural instinct-especially because of predators in the water (snapping turtles) that can pull them under. They will eventually go in, but even my adult goose and ducks don't like to venture very far into our pond-it takes awhile for them to get used to it.

Answer 4

if there is a mother duck, she will take them in the pond and teach them to swim, when she thinks they are the right age.. If you don't have a mother duck, i have no ideas.

Answer 5

You may have to take them there and get them into the pond. Once one goes in the others will follow. It may help for you to wade in.

Answer 6

I would let them get use to it and while doing that go to the vet to make sure there's nothing else I can do or if nothing else is wrong with them.

Answer 7

Go to www.liveducks.com. lori can help, as well as help with alot of other ducky questions.