JennyC wrote:
"Broadback" wrote in message
...
Mary Fisher wrote:
"JennyC" wrote in message
...
"Broadback" wrote in message
...
Having posted this on UK Birdwatching and not getting much response I
thought that I would try here. Mind I think by being too clever and
heading the question "S.O.D help please" (Save Our Ducks) may have put
peeps off reading it.
So, I have about a 1/2 acre garden surrounded by rabbit proof fencing,
in which I have a pond about 6x4 metres and 1 metre deep, around which
I have allowed a little wild garden. There is a pool just outside my
garden. A wild duck has recently hatched out nine chicks on the edge
of my pond, great. While sitting she was able to fly out of the garden
for feed, I assume. Now of course because the chicks are trapped so is
she. Will they do ok within this area (the rest is mainly cropped lawn)
or do they need more food? How long will it be before they can fly? I
do not want to permanently breech the fence or the rabbits will eat my
plants. If I let them out in the morning will they return well before
dusk? What should I do owt or nowt? TIA
Phew - tricky one !!
I would imagine they might need some assistance with extra food......

A quick Google brought these up, which might be useful:
http://www.phelpswaterfowl.com/Duckling_Care.htm (ducklings in
captivity)
http://www.callducks.net/feeding_ducklings.htm

I also found several recipes for "duck a la orange"..........but that's
maybe a bit premature "~)
Jenny
A local school had the same delightful problem. It was resolved when the
ducklings flew off with Mum but I don't know how old they were. A duck
they THINK it's the same one) comes back to the spot every year to rear
her brood in safety. Make the most of it!

Mary


Wash your mouth out Jenny!

Red wine goes well with duck..................."~)

Since posting this the duck and ducklings have disappeared. No sign that
the ducklings have been eaten, yet I'm blessed if I can work out how they
got out. Ducks can't carry their young like cats can they? Oh dear, I hope
this does not develop into a cat thread! ;-)

Could their be a hole in the fence somewhere?
Jenny


If there is Jenny, and I only checked it last week, then the rabbits
will sure find it, sigh. Sadly it is the most likely explanation. If so
I so wonder if they will be home this evening to roost.