Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi All,

I am new to this board, and know nothing of water birds. A duck just had hatchlings in a nest by a canal in FL. The canal has a wall about 9 feet high. One of the babies got in the canal, (don't know if it fell, or if the female puts them in water right away.) Anyway, I noticed it yesterday, a full day has gone by, and the baby is constantly calling for its mother, and the female duck can't get it out because of the wall, but often goes into the water to check on the baby.

Is this normal? I just don't want this poor little thing to drown because it can't get out of the water. Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated.

Hey,

Would you be able to reach the duckling with a long net?
Otherwise feed it small amounts of bread, lettuce, mixed corn/grains if possible. Ducklings up to the age of about 2 weeks are not waterproof so unless its kept warm and dry by its mother it stands a strong chance of dieing due to the cold.
Try to contact any rescue organisations, Veterinary surgeries, other local bird owners or a waterfowl association as they may be able to help you.

I hope the lil duck get back with its mother.
Could you let us know how you get on please?
Mel X

Just an update...My husband and I built a ramp out of the canal. Have not seen mother or hatchling in 2 days. We can only hope that they made it. Thanks for your words of assistance and concern.

Hi,

That was a really good idea. Hopefully the lil duckling got out and went off with it's mother.
Thanx for writing back.

Mel X