At What Age Are Ducklings Old Enough to Be Away From Their Mom?

Ducks are semi-aquatic birds. A number of duck species are migratory, breeding in the northern hemisphere when temperature conditions are suitable and flying south for warmer climates in the winter. This means in the right areas ducklings can be seen at around the same time each year before leaving their mother.

  1. Breeding Season

    • Ducks breed during the spring or early summer when temperatures are high enough to sustain the eggs. This usually happens during March and April. A female duck can lay up to nine eggs and will incubate them for between 22 and 28 days. The eggs are laid in a nest constructed from grass, reeds and other available material.

    First Days

    • For the first 24 hours of their lives, ducklings will not need to eat. The yolk of the egg provides enough nutrition, although the mother duck will lead them to water to drink. The eggs hatch at relatively the same time. After the first day, ducklings will feed by themselves on small insects and plants found in the water.

    Early Life

    • Ducklings are capable of being independent very soon after hatching. They can feed on their own, but take time to become strong swimmers. During their early life ducklings are escorted to water by the mother and allowed to swim for short periods.

    Leaving Mother

    • Ducklings will leave their mother as soon as they are able to fly long distances. This usually happens after about 2 months, although they can normally fly to some extent after 6 weeks. This also has a lot to do with when ducklings shed their pin feathers and develop the proper feathers needed for flight.