Newborn duckling shaking it's head

[keyt1969]

Well, yesterday I went out to the barn and was shocked to find two newborn ducklings. One was hidden behind a couple of my boyfriend's tools and the other was underneath my broody millie fleur. The one that was behind the tools was still wet so it couldn't have been there long! I brought it in and stuck it in the incubator that was already on for half a day. Now it's in the brooder box but I noticed it's shaking it's head repeatedly!

It's alert and cuddling with the other duckling but I haven't seen it drink or eat yet. It will shake it's head a few times and again 20 or so seconds later. I have literally had hundreds of ducklings in my life but never seen this before! Any ideas??

 

[Amiga]

I think it is trying to get something out of its mouth or nares.

Hmmmm.

Have you tried dipping its bill in lukewarm water to get it to start drinking?

 

[keyt1969]

Yes I've tried but it's shaking it's head so much I don't think it can get anything.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Yes I've tried but it's shaking it's head so much I don't think it can get anything.

Look at it's ears. keep moving feathers around till you find them just to make sure there isn't something going on there. and maybe try putting them into the sink with warm water so they start bathing. head ducking .

 

[Amiga]

I wonder if misting the little with warm water on its head a few times might help? If something is in the ears or nares, it might move it. Taking care to avoid blocking the nares with water, of course.

Here is an idea from left field, but I am going to offer it. I am really reaching to try to help. Take it for what it is worth.

Epsom salts is magnesium sulfate, and magnesium deficiency has been associated with some types of seizures.

Might it be safe for the duckling to have his or her legs dangled in a teacup of warm water with a quarter teaspoon of Epsom salts for three minutes? E.s. is a laxative, so the duckling cannot be allowed to ingest any of it.

Does the duckling seem to be gasping for air? Might there be airway blockage? Can you get to a vet?