Introduction of female call duck to existing 2

[Melanie Clark]

Hi, my male and female call ducks are just under a year and well settled. She's already laying and seem quite happy. A friend has asked me to take his female of the same age due to losing her male to foxes. Last night was her first night and the other two totally freaked out upon introduction. They seem to be bullying her quite a bit tithe point she stays on the water which seems to be exhausting her. Not sure if it will all settle down or what other action to take. If anyone has had any experience with this, I would appreciate some advice and guidance. Thank you. X

 

[dorsetduckowner]

Hiya

sorry to hear you are having problems, this is quite common, especially at this time of the year, introducing one female is always tricky, they don't seem to be accepted well. As long as she is eating and not showing fear behaviour (running away, hiding and shivering) then give her a while longer. Would it be possible to get another female rescue for her to team up with at all?

zo
x

 

[Melanie Clark]

Hey, thank you so much for the reply, still unsure as to what to do. She'd definitely showing signs of fear, she hid between the duck house and the enclosure for the best part of yesterday. I put her to bed in the house on her own last night with food and water to make sure she was getting some. The male just seems to bully her terribly. A lot of pecking of her neck and dunking her in the water, so for today I have seperated the male on his own. The two females together seem quite chilled by all accounts. Not sure this will settle things, but it'll give me piece of mind that he won't be at her all day. Does it seem to subside or will him bring horrible to her be a permanent thing do you think?? Any other tips anyone has will be truly appreciated. X

 

[dorsetduckowner]

You have done the right thing to separate the male, you will need to keep him separate for at least 3 weeks if possible, this will give the female a chance to establish herself and bond with the other one.
Try not to worry, this is very very normal.
Zo
x

 

[Melanie Clark]

Oh at least I was right to seperated them. This evening I have put both girls to bed together and left the male out with adequate bedding etc, much to his disapproval!! 3 weeks!! Wow, had a feeling it may take some time, so I guess the process has now started. Has anyone ever had success and happy endings from the introduction of a new female or is it so hard with established mini flocks?? The new female is such a pretty apricot call duck, I'd hate to have to give her up. Thanks again for your help, I am a bit of a worry wort. X