Two ducks on one nest

[Anonymous]

Hi
We have one lot of ducklings now and all the other girls are sitting. Has any one ever come across ducks sharing the nesting duties?

My husband came home one morning in the middle of winter with a moscovy under his arm which he had found beside a busy main road. After knocking on many doors to find out who it might belong to he brought it home and it has been with us ever since. She doesn't have a mate and has decided to help one of my call ducks with her nest.

When one gets off the other gets on. They have been doing this for 3 weeks now so no reason to think things might change. But what will happen when the eggs start to hatch? :?

All opinions welcome. Thanks.

 

[Davidd]

Hello, they may be fine-but on the other hand they could fight over the ducklings-and my money would be on the muskovy- great mothers and very feisty :shock: You will just need to be prepared to split them up if there is trouble, hopefully they will all get along fine Let us know how it goes,
regards, David

 

[Anonymous]

Hi David
You're a fountain of knowledge as always. If there is trouble do you think it wise to split the ducklings, assuming there is more than one, between mothers or keep them together with the most determined mum.

Thanks

 

[foxy]

Muscovies make the best mums! Agree they can be a bit fiesty though, I have learnt to keep well away from any with ducklings
One thing to be careful with is crows and magpies, they will take young ducklings no problem at all, so a well protected covered run would suit.

 

[Davidd]

Hi, if you have room, definately split them and give them both some each- that way they will be very happy Good point by Foxy- watch out for predators for a week or two- covered runs would be excellent if you have any.
regards, David