Why doesnt my Duck like me?

Question

I have 2 one and a half month old Pekin ducks. I never hurt them and care for them very gently. As Ducklings they followed me everywhere and loved to be handled. Now everytime i go to pat them they run away quacking very frightened. How can i get them to like me?

Answer 1

Because ducks are not domestic animals and they will naturally think you are a threat. They are VERY teratorial and very timid too. My advise is put them on the canal where they belong

Answer 2

The last answerer does not know what they are talking about. Domesticated means that it grew up in a domestic environment. Ducks can be wild or domestic. I have 2 pet ducks and they are just like dogs. Just as loveable, love to cuddle, and very cute. Once you domesticate ducks they will not survive if they go to "the canal where they belong." The 2nd answerer was good; also when you do get them make sure they know that you are loving on them!

Answer 3

Show them the alternative...a pot of boiling water.

Seriously, if you're not getting any love from them, at least you can get a full belly.

Answer 4

Don't bother answering if all you can think is "kill it lolz!" -- would you give the same advice to someone who's having trouble with their dog? I certainly hope not.

Chumba, try considering the way you approach your ducks. Normally if somebody goes to pet, say, a dog, they reach right out and pet it. But birds are flighty creatures, especially when the bird in question comes from a species that is prey to other animals in the wild. If you reach right out for your bird, you may be inadvertently triggering a "flight instinct" that tells them something bad is going to happen and they need to get away. This is not exactly contrary to their behavior when they were babies; after all, mother ducks don't pat their babies.

In order to help them not be so frightened, move slowly, and speak gently and quietly. Once you are close enough, try running your hand lightly over the midline of their backs. It may take time (days or weeks) before your ducks allow you to get this far, but only patience can earn their trust. Although you can also offer them a treat, such as frozen peas, while you're trying to gain their trust. ;) Once they are comfortable with you touching them, you can slowly increase the pressure of your hand until you are petting them normally.