Quick Quack Facts
1. Ducks and geese generally get along well together; both species are social animals who do not like living alone.
2. Domestic ducks can live to be 10-15 years old; geese can live 15-20 years.
3. Geese tend to be territorial and are good at chasing off intruders; they can be aggressive, especially during breeding season. They will typically back off if you wave your arms and move towards them, making noise.
4. Geese molt annually and mate for life. Ducks molt twice per year. Molts last for 6-8 weeks.
5. Geese and many female breeds of ducks can be quite noisy, so consider your neighbors before adopting. Muscovy ducks make little noise.
6. Before adopting a duck or goose:
7. Check your local zoning regulations to make sure that you can have them.
8. Make sure that you have the time to care for them and that you have responsible caretakers to cover for you in the event of illness or when on vacation.
9. Make sure that your vet cares for this species or, prior to adoption, find one in your area that does.
10. Waterfowl will naturally forage for bugs and plants, but should be given grain at least once a day.
11. Ducks and geese can suffer from abscesses on the foot pads that look like corns. This is referred to as bumblefoot. If there is pus, it needs to be cultured to determine what antibiotic should be used. Some cases are mild and can be treated with wraps alone. However, the wraps must be kept clean and dry, so the bird must be isolated from the pond/swimming area. You should consult your veterinarian to determine treatment.
12. Ducks and geese are messy animals; shelters must be cleaned and bedded with fresh bedding each day.
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