[northfifeduckling]

Has anyone tried hatching chicks with a broody duck? We have 2 determined young ducks and I could actually move one to the safe house.  If she stays put I'd try to give her hens' eggs as I don't think her own will do too well (she was put to bed away from the nest for the first 10 days). 

[HesterF]

Oooh, interesting. Not tried it - my ducks have shown no signs of broodiness - but the main problem I can think of is that they might not be gentle enough with chicken eggs. They're much easier to break and ducks seem to be a bit clumsier. Maybe give it a go and see - would love to hear how it goes! Oh, and not sure how confused a chicken would be at being raised by a duck - would it try and make them swim? That might be an issue too.

H

[Beeducked]

I have had very determined broody ducks in that past that did really well as mums. Not sure I would give them chicks though as they will probably take them straight into water and drown them as they will expect them to be able to swim. Guess if they don't have water t swim they might be OK but duckling as so much cuter!

[northfifeduckling]

She'd been sitting on the eggs at night but gave up in the morning, straight back onto her old nest ... still worth a try. I agree re cuteness but I have no more space for new ducks!