[Kathie]

Hi all,  we got our first duck egg this morning, we have 3 9 month old call ducks and we're not really sure which one has layed.  However, one of them appears a little bit under the weather.  She is keeping to herself and sitting down a lot.   Is it likely that first lay has traumatised her.  Thanks in advance.

[ANHBUC]

Hi Kathie, don't know about ducks but if they are similar to hens when they start to lay it may be that it is trying to lay a soft shelled egg.  This can happen when they first start laying and don't get the balance right to produce the shell.  With hens you can bathe them in warm water for around half an hour to encourage them to lay the softie.  You could try that and see how you go.  I am sure Kate and her ducks should be able to help so you could pm her.  Good luck