What do mallard ducks need

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Science Why it's so hard to treat pain in infants. Science The controversial sale of 'Big John,' the world's largest Triceratops. The oil gland providing waterproofing does not develop until they're feathered in. Mother ducks in the wild waterproof their ducklings with oil transferred from their own feathers and oil glands. Watch newly feathered ducks the first few times in the water and make sure they can get out easily.

A child's wading pool with large rocks on one end to stand on can make an ideal training area. If you keep your mallard in a cage or pen, provide a minimum of 10 square feet for each duck. Provide a lean-to or house so ducks can escape rain, sun, wind and snow. A pool is not necessary, but make sure to provide water deep enough that a duck can dip its nostrils under the water to moisten its mucous membranes.

Clean the pen or cage daily to prevent bad odors and bacteria buildup. Indulging her passion for vacation vagary through the written word on a full-time basis since , travel funster Jodi Thornton-O'Connell guides readers to the unexpected, quirky, and awe-inspiring.

By using the site, you agree to the uses of cookies and other technology as outlined in our Policy, and to our Terms of Use. Just make sure they can get in and out of the pool by themselves. Don't allow the water to get too dirty too.

Feces … is a BIG issue to consider. If you are familiar with other exotic birds then you probably have heard of bird diapering. While the typical bird diaper system sold is suitable for many types of bird, it will not fit ducks or geese. There is a harness similar to the diaper system that will hold a diaper on a duck or goose -- yet not interfere with swimming or preening.

Diapers on ducks should be changed on average of every 4 hours and it is relatively easy to do. For those interested in organic gardening, the bulk of the feces tends to ball up and can be easily separated from the diaper and be used for composting or worm farming.

Many local ordinances and homeowner associations prohibit poultry of any sort, and ducks can spread salmonella and avian flu to humans. Salmonella and avian flu can be avoided with the proper precautions. At a minimum, cleanliness and avoiding exposure are paramount in prevention. If you are considering a duck as a household indoor exotic pet, please do your homework and ensure it is the right choice for you. Ducks can live a long time and deserve a happy, healthy home for the duration.

As with all pets, remember to contact your veterinarian when you have questions and to schedule checkups on a regular basis to keep your pet healthy and happy.

Pet Assure is the largest veterinary network in the U. Pet Assure powers DVM Network, a brand built to support our participating veterinary professionals and help them grow their practice. Visit www. Keeping and Caring for Ducks as Pets. Reading time: 7 minutes. They are NOT suited to an indoor lifestyle. Although it may make you happy to keep your duck indoors, understand that you are being cruel to the duck, as they need to live outdoors.

Ducks are social animals that get along very well with each other and seldom fight. They are not solitary creatures and will become depressed and lonely quite easily; which will make it difficult for them to survive or thrive. Because they do feel loneliness, isolation, and grief much like humans; leaving a duck alone or caged for long periods of time is not emotionally healthy. NEVER keep just one duck; this is cruel. Ducks are highly social animals and this means they need other ducks to live with.

While it is possible to keep just one duck, it is strongly recommended that you have at least one other duck for company, while having three or four would be best. Think about the animal's needs, and how to give it the life it needs and deserves; not the life you want it to have.

Personality Traits Ducks are highly intelligent and emotional creatures. Fun Facts Contrary to popular belief, ducks do not require a pond or other open water in which to swim.