Separating ducklings of different age

[ducksinwashington]

We got two ducklings last Thursday but sadly one failed to thrive and died the next day. I immediately ordered 2 ducklings so our remaining duckling wouldn’t be alone. They hatched yesterday and will arrive tomorrow. I have put this divider into the brooder for their arrival as our remaining duckling has thrived and has nearly tripled in size.

I would love to hear from others who have dealt with this. The new ducklings will be 7-10 days younger. When will it be safe to remove the barrier and have everyone together?

 

[KathiQuacks]

Hello, welcome to BYC

I’ve personally had great success putting 2 week olds with hatchlings, so you may not need the barrier at all. In my experience, the elder, lonely duckling is way more accepting of new friends than a duckling that already has friends. Even if there is bullying, I’ve found that it fizzles out after a day or two and isn’t much of a concern. A 3+ week age gap is the only gap I’ve ever had problems with.

 

[ducksinwashington]

Hello, welcome to BYC

I’ve personally had great success putting 2 week olds with hatchlings, so you may not need the barrier at all. In my experience, the elder, lonely duckling is way more accepting of new friends than a duckling that already has friends. Even if there is bullying, I’ve found that it fizzles out after a day or two and isn’t much of a concern. A 3+ week age gap is the only gap I’ve ever had problems with.

Thank you! That is very reassuring. I was concerned because she did bully her first companion before she passed but hopefully she is just excited for her new friends!

 

[cheezenkwackers]

I did this last summer although mine were two weeks apart. I removed the barrier after only a couple of days. It helped having a brooder plate set low for the younger duckling. That way he could dive under it if the bigger one picked on him. They became inseparable.

 

[ducksinwashington]

I did this last summer although mine were two weeks apart. I removed the barrier after only a couple of days. It helped having a brooder plate set low for the younger duckling. That way he could dive under it if the bigger one picked on him. They became inseparable.

Love hearing this! Thank you for sharing