Kitchen Garden Forum

I've got a pair of muscovy ducks that don't go in their house at dusk like my hens do. How do I get them to go in? I'm sure it is just a matter of time before the fox finds my boys...

Hi Fen

When you got them, did you do the old trick of leaving them shut in for the first day so they imprint on the shed as home?

Could be worth trying now. If the shed is not that big, try leaving the access door open so they get daylight, but block it up temporarily with chicken wire. As long as they have food and water they will be fine for the day.

Sue

Sue is right, important to imprint in their minds that the shed is home. But, in order to do that you need to get them in there first, right? Try feeding them in there, get them to follow you in with the corn. Put it in the feed bowl & shut the door. Ensure the shed is ready, with drinking water etc and as Sue says if necessary have a ready made frame made up for air ciculation etc during the day. Once they know it is home it should get easier, but despite what is said about not feeding them at bedtime, they may need coaxing into bed with a little titbit now and again.

Just realised what I have written... Now then boys, cool down I am talking about the ducks,

Good Luck with the Muscoveys, they are great fun!

Dear Rarebredchick, i didn't think you could have meant anything else.

Hi Oldherbaceous,

Its you I was worried about & if you did not misinterpret, MY mind must be getting worse......