Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I recently purchased 15 female Pekin ducks. I didn't want 15 but in order to get 2 ducks I had to purchase 15. OK I got 15. I figure I can use the eggs. 1 died in shipping and one got sick and died and I have another that holds its head to the side and can't seem to keep her balance very well (She eats and drinks okay but she is kind of crooked). Anyway, I was wondering if someone can tell me if ducks play? I have seen them pick things up and try to eat them, i.e. rocks, sticks, ice from their water. But do I need to put something in their pen to play with like a ball or plastic toy or something large enough they can't swallow it?

Hi,
Boy do you have your hands full! I have 5 Pekins and they keep me pretty busy. Of course, mine are totally spoiled little babies so that probably creates more work than necessary.

Four of mine came together as ducklings and they really did not require any sort of toys to keep them occupied. They pretty much amused themselves with each other. I have noticed however they will poke at softballs that end up in our pond. I don't really know if they are playing or if they just want to know who put that thing in their swimming area. I tried to give the youngest (5th duck)a plastic ball about the size of a softball but she is afraid of it.

You mentioned one duckling is kind of off balance and twisted. My youngest duck was a little bit that way for the first couple of weeks. In fact, she would try to preen herself on her back (which they normally do without problem) and inevitably end up flipped over or walking like she was dizzy. I never did find out why she did that, but being the paranoid mom that I am, I put supplements in her water. She is fine now.

Good luck with your ducks. They can be very affectionate and are keenly smart if you establish that relationship with them.

Gramma Duck

Ducks seem to take enjoyment in everything they do. If you want to entertain them try sprinkling some meal works in their pen. They will paly with them for a while, then decide they are yummy and its very entertaining to watch them learn how to eat them. You can also make them friendlier because as they get older they will come running to sit on your lap when they see you have the work tub.

Ducks do play but not like we think. My pekins play keep away with a lettuce core. As far as I have seen they do not play with toys. Just give them lots of fresh clean water.