We are considering taking in baby mallard ducks... Anyone know if it is a good idea to let them swim by themselves???
2007-02-02 07:08:48 · 7 answers · asked by Sarah S 1 in Pets ➔ Birds
As for the previous "that's illegal" thing. Almost all domestic ducks are derived from the mallard, and there are domestic mallards. It's not illegal to own a domesticated mallard.
Unfortunately, downy chics aren't as bouyant as their parents, and should be monitored while swimming. Their water bowl should be the kind which allows the head in, but not the body, since you don't want them to drink where they mess, and open water is just a bad idea.
You also want to keep in mind that downy chics can catch a draft if you aren't careful. Wet, cold ducks are sick ducks. Best bet for healthy babies? wait till they have pinfeathers.
Good luck.
2007-02-05 06:06:13 · answer #1 · answered by Theresa A 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I like Leyla and Rylee alot. Suggestions: Sapphire Mia Aurora Cecilia Annabelle Carrigan Jaide Eden Carine Shailene Katrina Rosalie Emmeline Madelyne Genevieve Vivienne
2016-05-24 05:49:58 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Disclaimer--Assuming you are in the US (I don't know about other countries' regulations), Mallard ducks are migratory birds and are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty. It is illegal to own them or keep them as pets. You may want to consider giving the ducklings to a wildlife rescue organization, where they have the permits and knowledge to take care of them. You can also volunteer for that organization so you can care for the ducklings, and other animals, yourself.
That being said....Ducklings are covered with down that is not waterproof, therefore they get wet quite quickly when swimming. Yes, they do swim with their parents, but only for short periods, after which they get out, and preen to dry themselves off.
In general, it is best to not let ducklings swim until they have their feathers. However, if you supervise their swimming and only give them access to swimming water on a limited basis (drinking water should always be available, in a dispenser designed so that they can't swim in it), I can't see harm in letting them swim for a few minutes, then taking them out, putting them on dry towels and under a heat lamp.
2007-02-02 09:59:38 · answer #3 · answered by birdr 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Baby ducks can swim from hatching, but there are other dangers a mother would warn them of. If they are in an enclosure it is safe to let them swim. Let the dish or pond be shallow so that they can get out. They can drown if they become trapped in water.
2007-02-02 07:43:55 · answer #4 · answered by Angie C 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't know. I do know that it take a little while for them to become 'buoyant.' if you put them in the water too early (I think before they start getting brown stripes) then they sink like little stones. But I think as long as you keep an eye on them in a controlled body of water (bathtub, koi pond, etc - not the local fishing lake) they should be okay. (Needless to say it's best to leave them with mom. I assume you're taking them in because something happened to her)
2007-02-02 07:18:29 · answer #5 · answered by LX V 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes because therre are getting taught free swimming lessons
2007-02-06 04:59:07 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
if supervised be my guest . always watch them before you let themin put in some food let it sink do they will learn to dive for it if they dont reach in your hand an grab some off the bottom for themuntill they get it that they need to dive down to get food
2007-02-02 07:50:01 · answer #7 · answered by Here i am 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋