Introducing Ducks to my Drake...

[n_holzer]

This is a really random query, but I can't find adequate information in any books etc. Basically, I have a 2 1/2 year old Mallard drake that is currently single; he did grow up with a call drake, but sadly he passed away in May. I would like get him two female companions now, as I feel he needs some company; he has previously suffered stress due to his loss, and separation anxiety from when I leave him, so I feel company would alieviate his stress.
I am having an aviary/porch type construction built for him, which connect to the back door so that he is close to me still. What I would like to know is because it's new territory whether it would it be better to get the females and place them in this house to settle first and then introduce Albert into it as his new home, or place Albert into to settle as his new home, then purchase females and place them into it? What would be a good idea for a successful introduction to new friends and a new territory?

Also, if anyone has any advice about particular duck breeds to accompany my Mallard drake (I am planning on getting two females) it would be really appreciated. They would need to be a small breed as my garden isnt huge, and I'm not overly worried about the noise levels concerning neighbours, as Albert makes enough noise as it is and I hear drakes keep their ducks quiet anyway. He is not highly sex driven as well, and never has been so I don't think he would irritate these girls when it gets to the mating season.

Thank you! X

 

[dorsetduckowner]

Hi Again , great to hear more of Alberts story.
Introductions are best if they all go into the new place together.
I would get either mallards or miniature apple yards. I know you are not worried about noise BUT call ducks are exceptionally noisy, they are bred to be noisy (to attract other ducks so people can shoot them). If you get mallards try and get domestic mallards as they will be more content in an aviary than ones with a wild heritage (although all mall ads have a wild heritage the ones that have been repeatedly bred in captivity will be better).
Good luck and keep us posted! pictures would be fab!

 

[n_holzer]

Hello again and thank you for the reply!

Since my last post Albert has improved so much! He no longer spins and seems a lot happier in himself.

Ok so like placing them in neutral territory? That sounds like a good idea because I'm aiming for as little confrontation as possible. Do you think that when I place them in the new house I should be present or leave them to it? I want to make sure Albert feels comfortable and at ease because he does still express some anxiety.
I was looking at miniature appleyards and I think they are beautiful! I would adore a mallard for Albert though so maybe one of each! Yes I agree about the more domestic mallards, and hopefully they would be used to human presence also. I shall keep you updated especially with pictures

Thank you!

 

[dorsetduckowner]

Glad to hear Albert has stopped his spinning
I would watch when you first introduce them, but stay out of sight.
Also I would get two of the same girls as there is less likely to be any competition then. Albert will likely naturally prefer his own kind and an apple yard may be pushed out.
zo
x

 

[n_holzer]

Yes It is such a relief to see him happier!
That sounds fine as I can watch from my living room, and monitor whats happening.
Oh ok good point! Well Mallards is what I was thinking anyway, and yes I think Albert would preffer his own breed
Thank you! x