How to Tame an Aggressive Pet Duck

Ducks are interesting pets that provide curiosity and companionship. As any pet, these birds need to want to be with you and to trust you. They need a reason to come to you and that varies among individual ducks, but food, petting and hours of companionship are key. Aggression can stem from the bird being fearful, unfamiliar with the person, or by the duck protecting its nest or mate. In all cases, it is fear and a lack of respect or trust in the person that causes the duck to attack. The following desensitization method is known as "advance and retreat".

Things You'll Need

  • Duck treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sit down next to the duck as it goes about its routine. Stay just outside the duck's comfort zone, but do not give the duck the impression you are stalking it. Read a book or otherwise divert eye contact. Pick at the dirt and grass as this calms the duck (this mimics feeding behavior).

    • 2

      Bring friendly ducks into the mix. Begin offering them treats in front of the aggressive duck. Do not try to catch any duck. Let friendly ducks crawl up to you and on you. Do this for several days or until the aggressive duck seems less frightened and more curious.

    • 3

      Feed treats to all the ducks as usual. Do not give any treats to the aggressive duck. Make it come close to where you are sitting to get the treat. Give the treat, but do not grab at the duck. Repeat this step until the duck begins to calm down and to approach more readily and willingly. Never rush the process.

    • 4

      Encourage the duck to try to crawl near your lap. Hold the treat far enough so that the duck must touch you to get it. Keep the treat further out of reach until the duck must climb onto your lap to get it. Pet the duck when the bird is completely comfortable and relaxed with the process.