Cold Duckling Rescue
It has been a harrowing day. Luci's ducklings hatched late yesterday evening. Before I went to bed (early am), I checked on the nest and something large was rustling in the bushes and ran off. The nest is tucked behind trees and I also put and old kiddie pool over it, so it's well hidden. When I got to them, the ducklings were alone in the nest and Luci was beside the nest, I guess she was spooked by whatever was in the bushes. She was pushing twigs and leaves over the ducklings like she does when she buries her eggs. I was worried because they had just hatched, but I thought maybe my presence was stressing her out more and I should leave her alone. When I got up this morning (late am) she was still beside her nest and three of the ducklings had gotten under her. One duckling was not so lucky and it was cold and motionless, covered with leaves and twigs. My heart sank as I picked up the lifeless baby duck. But as I walked away with him, he twitched. I thought maybe there's hope. I took him inside and got the heat lamp. As he warmed up, he started to move and peep. At first he was floppy and spastic and I wasn't sure if he was going to make it, but by late afternoon he seemed bright eyed and bushy tailed and was hopping around. This is a video of him having chin scratches. I took him back outside to see if Luci would accept him. He was super excited to see his siblings and started playing straightaway. Every time I talked he would run to me, it was so cute! I've been checking on them, and so far so good. At last check, everyone was tucked safe and warm under Mama Luci. I'm going to worry all night, but I have to fight the urge to keep checking. I hope my little duckie is ok.