Mallard Ducklings

Mallard ducklings are being hatched all over the city and county. The duck builds her nest in very inaccessible places so as to protect the eggs from predators. She can lay a large number of eggs, sometimes between 12 and 15. When all the eggs are laid incubation begins. This can take 14 to 18 days. In the first 24 hours after hatching mother duck must take her ducklings to water to feed.
This is a very dangerous time for them. Magpies, gulls or crows may prey on them. It is not uncommon to see a duck trying to cross a busy road with her clutch in tow ! They often fall into holes, drains and cattle grids are a great hazard. They cannot get out of these and have to be rescued. The best help one can give them is to allow them to cross in safety and not to handle the ducklings unless absolutely necessary. It is very important that mother duck is not frightened off. If this happens the ducklings will have to be handreared. This is a long and difficult process. The best one to rear them is mother duck.