How to Transport Ducklings in a Car

Ducklings are fragile creatures that require a stable environment to grow into adult ducks. Proper bedding, a heat source, and fresh food and water are the basic elements needed to care for ducklings. When transporting ducklings in a car, it's important to set up a safe environment that contains each of these essential elements. Car rides should be short and rare as ducklings do best when kept in a pond or pen and allowed to move about freely.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic tote or wire cage
  • Towel or receiving blanket
  • Bedding
  • Heat lamp and bulb
  • Duckling starter food
  • Bowl
  • Water bottle
  • Blankets
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Instructions

    • 1

      Acquire a plastic tote box or wire cage in which to transport the ducklings. Choose a wire cage with 1/2-inch or smaller openings to prevent injury to the ducklings' wings or strangulation.

    • 2

      Line the bottom of the cage with a clean, soft towel or receiving blanket. Cover all areas that may have contact with the ducklings' feet. Walking on the wire bars of the cage can be painful for the ducklings and cause injury to their feet.

    • 3

      Place a thick layer of dry hay or straw over the towel or receiving blanket. Ensure that the bedding is free of mold, which can be hazardous if the ducklings are exposed to it.

    • 4

      Set up a heat source to keep the ducklings warm during the car ride. Attach a heating lamp with a 250-watt bulb to the top of the cage if possible. If no heating lamp is available, set the temperature in the car between 85 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Lower the temperature 5 degrees for each week of life.

    • 5

      Provide the ducklings with a bowl of duckling starter food containing between 18 to 23 percent protein. Attach a water bottle with fresh, room temperature water to the side of the cage. Avoid using a bowl of water, which can spill during the car ride.

    • 6

      Cover the entirety of the cage with a heavy blanket when moving the ducklings from their home to the car. Ducklings cannot be exposed to cold or drafts. Move quickly to limit the time that the ducklings remain outdoors.

    • 7

      Secure the cage containing the ducklings to a clean area inside the car. Place rolled up blankets around the cage to prevent it from shifting during travel. Ensure that the cage remains flat and does not fall from its surface.