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Many of you are aware that Eric and I have pet ducks, most of which where rescued after being dropped off at ponds. Every spring, some misguided (or greedy) retailer sells ducklings as novelties. Unsuspecting individuals purchase these darling ducklings for their children, not realizing that in a matter of about 6 weeks, they will have a full-grown duck to care for. These ducks have imprinted on humans and DEPEND ON HUMANS FOR THEIR CARE AND FEEDING. These are domesticated animals that CANNOT FEND FOR THEMSELVES IN THE WILD. 

Most people think that dropping them off at their local pond is giving the ducks the "good life;" little do they know that what often happens to them is that they are eaten by one of any number of predators:  dogs, hawks, owls, raccoons, opossums, fox, coyotes, even snapping turtles. If they don't find their demise in this horrific manner, they are likely to be hit by a vehicle (they CANNOT fly) or starve to death. Well-meaning individuals think that feeding ducks bread is doing them a favor, but it simply fills their bellies up with worthless, nutrition-less mass, and keeps them from foraging for something that may give them the nutrition they need.

Tractor Supply has implemented a month long "special" of selling ducklings.  PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE help the ducks plight and click here to make a difference.  Maybe they will stop this practice that sends THOUSANDS of animals to a certain and horrible death.

I've had the pleasure of having ducks in my life for about 5 years now--trust me, they are every bit as smart, funny, and loving as your cats and dogs. Eric and I realize that having ducks may be a little unusual, and we always take the good-natured ribbing in stride; but trust me:  these animals have a soul, and deserve a better fate. Please help. Thanks so much in advance, everyone.

Glynis & Eric Huffan
Sideways Farm, KY

We often use the word "imprinted" when we discuss the connection between humans and ducks, but what exactly is imprinting?

There are two types of imprinting that occur among ducklings and goslings: filial imprinting and sexual imprinting.

Filial Imprinting is when ducklings and goslings hatch and subsequently learn to recognize their parent--or the first moving object that they consider to be their parent. This commonly occurs within a day and a half of hatching.

It makes sense that ducklings and goslings, who leave the nest soon after hatching, have the instincts to socially bond and stick close to a parent (even if that parent is you!) for protection. These hatchlings are more likely to survive and reproduce in the long run--an evolutionary benefit.

Occasionally we are asked if  hatchlings who were acquired at a few days old will still imprint on their new human parents. The answer is yes. Imprinting is not so steadfast as to have exact time lines or conditions--especially if there is no other parent around.

Our rescue endeavor frequently exposes us to formerly human imprinted birds who were subsequently abandoned. These ducks and geese have completely let go of their social bond with humans. In some cases, we can re-establish this filial bond. It can take anywhere from a few months to a year, but rediscovering this bond is possible.

Sexual Imprinting is when a duckling or gosling internalizes those traits that will one day be attractive in a mate. As adults, ducks and geese are attracted to mates who share the appearance of their parent.

If your duckling or gosling experienced filial imprinting on you because you were their caretaker upon hatching, they will also learn that your human physical traits are attractive. When they mature, they will begin to see you in a whole new light and may court you instead of other ducks or geese.

Sexual imprinting is not necessarily permanent--especially if there are other ducks and geese around. Although hatchlings may sexually imprint on you in the beginning, this tends to change once they mature and encounter other adult waterfowl. Commonly, by their first Spring, most will figure out the birds & the bees and will appropriately redirect their impulses, although they will still hold a special place in their hearts for you.

Our drakes Young Jeffrey & Young Matthew imprinted on humans, but once we began our rescue work and brought in hens, the boys realigned their beliefs pretty quickly. Although today they will toss a few courting displays my way, we are far second to the hens.

Sexual imprinting can also induce egg-laying in hens. If you have a hen who has imprinted on you, your presence can entice courting behavior and egg-laying.