Reptile & Amphibian Forums

OK, I know it is not possible to accuratly tell the sex of a 2-3 day old Roeun duckling but I have been told males are usually slightly taller and have bigger feet.

1.) Is this true??

2.) If it is then my next question is this. If I'm getting three ducklings what would make a good combination?? I heard that drakes are mean unless with a female so what do I do. Try to get one male and two females?? I do not plan breeding and I will dispose of eggs once I find them, I have decided this. As I can't possible keep having babies... So, with this in mind should I try for two males and female?? Or would two males not get along???

Any suggestions are highly appreciated

Erin

Hi,

Its true that it best to keep 1 male with at least 2 females, although certain breeds such as Indian Runners can live quiet happilly in and ratio. I'd try to get more females if you can.

Day old ducklings can be sexed by looking internally at the vent. Although this should be done by someone who has experience.
Its more acurate to sex ducklings at the age of 1-2 months or onwards, when they start to grown their feathers and their calls develop.
Male ducklings normally do have larger feet, and are slightly bigger. But last year i had 3 ducklings that hatched, 2 of the eggs were slightly bigger, and therefore the ducklings were, and both these turned out to be female, and the smaller egg/duckling turned out to be a male. So for the first month or so size isn't always correct, as they need time to grow and develop further.

I've found a couple of websites that may help, but there doesn't seem to be alot of info on sexing ducklings...

http://indianrunnerducks.co.uk/care.htm
http://members.cox.net/gsdvominsel/ducks.htm

Mel X

Thank you for the sites and the advice. I guess from the reading I got I should try for all males or all females. That I guess is going to be the toughest part,lol.

I don't have a hatchery around me (to ask an experienced person)so its going to be difficult but heck I'm up for it

Thanks again
Erin