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Hens and Ducklings Together: A question from one of our visitors:

Dear Pam,

I just found your web site and really enjoyed it. I'm hoping you can help me with a question I have. I have 3 Rhode Island Red hens who are a year old and are laying. This spring I got 4 Ducklings, they are growing up nicely. My question is this; When will I be able to keep them in the same pen together. I've tried once to blend them and the chickens were not nice to the ducklings at all. That was about 3 weeks ago and the ducklings are much bigger in size. I have them all in the same house but have them separated by a fence. Any help on this matter will be GREATLY appreciated.

Sincerely, Darla

Dear Darla,

I wouldn't put them together until the ducks have their grown up feathers. I had about 50 Rhode Island Reds and found them to be very aggressive, especially toward other poultry they perceive as "weaker" and they pecked the others to death and ate them! Gross! Anyway, if you can keep them separated it would be better, the ducks will be happier. Otherwise, wait until the ducks are big enough to out weigh the hens, and have feathers. Also, ducks can't eat the treated food that you may be feeding the hens. It will make them sick. Some chicken "laying" feeds contain medications that are harmful to the ducks, so check your label. If you have any other questions, please let me know. ~ Pam Hunter

Dear Pam,

    Thank you so much for you rapid reply. I've just spent the last hour on the internet trying to get an answer and you did it in a matter of minutes. Thank you. thanks for the tip on the feed but i did research that and my chicken food is non medicated and the ducklings are doing great. My Hen house oops Bird house is 8'x10' I believe I can keep them separate if I redesign my layout. I'll be making separate runs for them as well. My predator problem is 0 as I have a miniature donkey on guard at all times. She's wonderful. We named her Hotee.....Donkey Hotee ;-} It's such a pleasure finding a site that is willing to help us small time farms that also share a love for all Gods creatures. I particularly got a tickle out of your snake story. My "farm" has a wonderful mix of animals. Appaloosa gelding who started it all. Mini Donkey, Mini Rabbit, cat, 3 chickens, 4 ducklings, 2 dogs, guinea pig, leopard Gecko, 4 Dwarf African Aquatic frogs (just got them) 3 aquariums and the latest 3 Ring neck turtle doves. I was more than pleased to read your recommendation about doves. They are all and more what you said. Once again thank you for your WONDERFUL site!!!!!!!!!

Sincerely, Darla

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