Expert: Roger Lederer - 12/18/2007

Question
a friend of mine rescued a mallard that had it's feathers frozen to the pond during a sudden temp drop recently. Before he discovered the mallard it had been attacked by gulls, they tore up his back terribly. The ducks wound has healed nicely but the feathers haven't grown back yet. He's wondering if releasing him now without feathers over the wound could cause him to suffer from frostbite. Should he keep the duck until the feathers have grown back or is ok to release him as he is. Please advise.

Answer
There is very little skin on a ducks back so he won't lose much body heat from there, but yes, frostbite is a possibility. If the duck is healthy and eating and relatively happy in captivity, keep him until feathers appear. If they were torn out, they should start growing back soon. If he is not eating or otherwise not happy in cpativity, it is best to release him.