You won't be able to tell the sex of a baby duck until they're much older, and it can be difficult to figure it out when it's young.There are specific methods experienced duck owners use to figure out what sex their ducklings are.The majority of these methods are applicable to most duck breeds, but there will be some variation when it comes to physical properties.
Step 1: If you can't tell the difference, wait two weeks for the ducklings to mature.
It's difficult to figure out the gender by voice when they're just babies because the calls are so similar.Wait for at least 2 weeks before starting to listen to their voices.
Step 2: You can identify duckling voices later if you listen to them.
To identify the sex of a duck by its voice, you need to be familiar with the differences.A female duck's voice is similar to that of a stereotypical quack as the duck grows older.As soon as they're 2 weeks old, female ducklings can start quacking, but it may take as long as 8 weeks for them to get it right.
Step 3: There is a peeping from male ducks.
Male duckling voices are not the same as duck voices.Males tend to be quieter than females.As they grow older, male ducks are harder to distinguish from the females.Also be on the lookout for this particular variation of the male Muscovy duck.You can find male and female duckling voices online.
Step 4: Do you know if your ducks have a difference in appearance between males and females?
Although it is said that the easiest way to tell the difference between a male and a female duck is their plumage, some duck species have no plumage difference through sex, so research carefully first before beginning.
Step 5: The male duck is more colorful.
A male duck will be more colorful than a female duck.A male Mallard has a rich chocolate color and a white collar around its neck.The male's colorful feathers are designed to attract mates.They'll find a mate if the duck is flashy.
Step 6: It's a good idea to look for duller colors in females.
Female ducks are more reserved in their coloring.A female duck's bill will be a mixture of brown and gray and she will have a splash of orange on it.A female Mallard is chestnut brown with a gray and orange bill.It's a good idea to research your duck species to find any breed specific distinguishing colors.
Step 7: The drake feather can be used to identify a male.
The feathers of male and female ducks are different.A male duck's tail feathers may start to Curl upwards around 3 months old compared to a female duck.The duck's normal feathers that have curled up and back towards the duck can be seen in the drake feather.
Step 8: Female ducks may have increased feather growth.
A female duck will grow in its feathers a lot quicker than a male.Make a note of which ducklings exhibit feather growth first as you watch them grow.The female ducklings are likely here.
Step 9: If you're not sure, consult a vet.
If you intend to do this on your own, you must be very careful.If you haven't done it before, it's best to visit a vet who can do it for you.If you're unsure, get someone more experienced to show you how to do it.It isn't a process that should be guessed at.
Step 10: The duckling should be held upside down.
If you hold the duckling upside down, its feet will fall into its belly.If you think the duckling will sit still, you can use a table.
Step 11: Below the vent, apply pressure.
The cloaca is a small slit under the duckling's feathers that holds its genitals.It can be found under the feathers a short way from its rear.Use your thumb to apply pressure to the duck's vent.At this point, the duck may excrete.Apply the pressure and wipe it off.
Step 12: Put pressure on the vent by pushing the tail back.
The duck's tail should be tucked towards its back.Apply pressure on both sides of the vent with 2 fingers.Let go for a few seconds, then press in again.The cloaca is the animal's urinary tract.If the cloaca does not invert, apply pressure until it does.
Step 13: There is a penis or vagina.
A male penis can be pink, white, or dark gray.Look for a pair of vaginal lips to be certain of a vagina.A male duck can be mistaken for a female if it hides its genitals.When the duck is a little bigger, it can be double checked.
Step 14: There is pressure on the vent.
The cloaca should be let go of the duckling's vent.Rub near it if it doesn't immediately.