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98 Hand-Rearing Birds

Diets

Diet variation is a huge issue when rearing waterfowl. One species may do very well on commer-
cial duckling starter; the next species may need live food to survive. It cannot be stressed enough
that birds coming into care at a rehabilitation facility must be correctly identified to care for them
successfully (Baicich and Harrison 2005). There are a few “first” foods that waterfowl young
respond to universally. These “first” foods are not meant to be the only food offered. The health of
young waterfowl requires a varied diet.

First Foods
After stabilization feedings, introduce wild‐growing duckweed or watercress. It is one of the best
first foods for young waterfowl. Duckweed contains tiny invertebrates important for rapid growth.
Wild ducklings, goslings, and cygnets readily eat natural greens (Stromberg 1986). Duckweed can
be legally collected from lakes or streams and maintained under refrigeration for a week or more.
With fresh water, gently rinse as much as needed for a day’s feeding until the water runs clear but
most natural material remains (Figure 5.3). Wild greens have organisms that occur naturally in the
wild. In the past, some sources have expressed concern about introducing potentially pathogenic
organisms to young waterfowl. That concern may be valid for those birds that are domestic or
remain captive; however, this author suggests rehabilitated birds will experience these upon
release and it is better to do that with a natural immunity developed from hatch.
Float the greens in a shallow pan of water and place it in the brooder box (Figure 5.3). Water
dishes should have a ramp to facilitate access into and out of the pan for small species. Change
water and rinse greens frequently, or when soiled with feces. If there is no access to natural duck-
weed, finely chopped romaine lettuce can be used. Small amounts of dried or frozen blood‐worms,
available in pet store tropical fish departments, human baby cereal available in grocery stores, or
Waterfowl Starter (Mazuri) crushed into a powder can be added to the duckweed water to increase
protein and food taste experience. More advanced chicks will appreciate the addition of small min-
nows and insects to the duckweed water.
Many young birds refuse to eat dry food. Wetting food may increase success. However, wet mash
sours easily and should be changed at least twice per day. Commercial starter pellets come in a

Figure 5.3 Young swan cygnets showing interest in duckweed in water bowl.