AboutEdward Expertise I am a wildlife rehabber in North America and can answer questions on many species, especially North and South American Species
Experience I have handreared many different types of animals, mainly raccoons, oppossums, raptors, songbirds, crows, deer, and bears. I also have worked in animal centers and zoos.
Organizations World Wildlife Fund, Conservation International.
Publications Ranger Rick Magazine
Education/Credentials Degree in zoology and wildlife biology.
Expert: Edward Date: 7/2/2008 Subject: one legged duck??
Question I got a baby duck yesterday, when i noticed she's not using one of her legs. It just sits limp. Vet said it's not broken, no punctures of any kind. She is in very good health otherwise, drinks a plenty, eats, plays in the tub, as i'm keeping it indoors to help it out. Can a duck walk on one leg? Could it get used to it and be able to live a somewhat normal life? I have seen one legged birds make it out in the wild, would this duck make it in a controlled environment? It's a pet duck, very tamed.
Answer Hello Chantale.
There may be something else wrong with the leg, perhaps even a slight deformity from birth. However, if there seems to be no problem and the duck does not seem to be in pain, then there is an excellent chance of it living a long and happy life. It will have to learn to do some things differently, and walking may be something of a challenge. You could speak to your vet about when your duck is older, maybe getting a support of some kind to make walking easier, a sort of duck crutch. I once saw a chicken born without feet and its owners had shoes made for it. If it is a pet duck, it has an ecellent chance of making it. I do not know what your intentions are, but I would discourage against releasing it into the wild. I don't know if you had even thought about that though. But again, with a little helpl, your duck should live a happy life.
