Ducklings hatched: what to do next, instructions and why a brooder is needed, problems
The appearance of ducklings is a joyful event in the backyard. But, along with positive emotions, inexperienced farmers have a feeling of insecurity. They are glad that the ducklings have hatched, but they do not know what to do next. In the first days and weeks of life, the chicks are weak and vulnerable. Wrong actions can ruin them. Therefore, you need to carefully and carefully help them until the ducklings get stronger.
What should be done with ducklings after hatching?
Some poultry farmers do not take newborn chicks. They advise leaving ducklings under the duck, and entrusting her upbringing and care.But the female does not always surround the babies with care, there are times when she eats her own chicks. Also, in cold weather, it is not recommended to leave ducklings in the care of a duck.
Babies can be picked up 30 minutes after birth. The brood should be placed in a warm room. In the early days, the chicks are very vulnerable to cold weather. The first seven days, ducklings should be kept at a temperature of +28 … +30 ° C. From the second week, the temperature is reduced to +22 °C, and from the third - to +16 °C.
Lighting should be around the clock in the first days of a baby's life. Although they are ready to swim from the first week, it is recommended to release them into the water at three weeks of age. Bathing earlier can lead to colds. Until the 20th day, ducklings are taught to swim in a small container located indoors.
Newborn chicks should be fed heavily. You need to start after they are completely dry. The sooner they start eating, the sooner they develop a steady swallowing reflex. Weak babies are first given a weak solution of potassium permanganate.
Since the chicks do not understand anything yet, they should be accustomed to the feeder. To do this, their backs are sprinkled with small pieces of boiled eggs. Falling into the feeder, the pieces will attract the attention of yellowmouths, and they will begin to peck at them. As a result, the chicks will get used to eating from the feeder. Until the fifth day, ducklings need to be fed frequently, 5-6 times a day. After the first week and up to a month, the number of dressings is reduced to 4 times. On the first day, hard-boiled eggs are used as food. On the second day, you need to mix the bran, eggs and milk and feed the resulting mixture to the chicks.
On the third day, add another "dish": mixed fodder and small pieces of nettle with yogurt. If the kids do not eat, then feed them forcibly. After the first day of life, babies are placed in a brooder.
What is a brooder and what is it for?
A brooder is a container imitating a mother hen in which day old ducklings are placed. The name was formed from the English word "brood", which means "bring out" or "hatch". The brooder must meet the following conditions:
- Provide babies with warmth. Many models have thermostats to set the optimum temperature.
- Good ventilation required. Chicks should feel comfortable and spacious inside.
- Be sure to install lamps for lighting inside. Light sources are set so that they do not burn the ducklings.
- The floor must be dry and have a mesh through which waste can fall into the tray.
The purpose of the brooder is to raise ducklings up to 45-50 days. It replaces the mother hen and provides a comfortable, safe environment. The brooder needs to be cleaned periodically so that infectious diseases do not occur. Ready-made products are sold, but you can make the device yourself.
What problems might arise?
Problems can arise from malnutrition. If you do not provide the chicks with high-protein food, meal, fishmeal, then they will become weak, will not be able to walk, and may die in the future. Also, do not feed them sour foods or fresh bread.
This food can lead to diarrhea in birds and their death. Food must be finely chopped, otherwise the ducks will choke.
Be sure to monitor the temperature regime. The cold will kill the yellowmouths. Keep ducklings separately from adult birds, which can cripple or kill them. Babies should be handled with care as they have weak bones. There should be no sharp shiny objects near the birds, for example, glass fragments, nails. Ducklings can swallow them and die.
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