I found a duckling! What should I feed it and when can I release it?

Question

A duckling (not sure how old but can walk and quack, I can measure it if this helps) walked into my garden this morning. I have been researching but not too sure what i need to do for it. So far i have a cardboard box with a square cut out to act as a door and a blanket at the bottom, i have a small water bowl and a bowl of granola and the box is in a room that’s completely safe. Can you suggest anything else I need and when i should let it out to the lake near me with lots of other ducks? Pet's info: Bird | Duck | Male | unneutered

Linda G, MS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello. Looks like you have a pretty young mallard duck. You will need to purchase a bag of duck feed, or at least start the little guy on a chick starter ( hopefully you have some feed stores in your country ) & keep him on this until he looses all his down & is fully feathered. This will be around 7-9 weeks. He will not survive on granola or just bread. Keep him warm & protected & he should grow just fine. You might also see if there are any wildlife rehabilitators in your area who can do a much better job raising & releasing the duckling in a safe manner. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

I found a duckling! What should I feed it and when can I release it?

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