Orphaned

Ducks generally only have one partner at a time, although the partnership usually only lasts one year.[7] Larger species and the more sedentary species (like fast-river specialists) tend to have pair-bonds that last numerous years.[8] Most duck species breed once a year, choosing to do so in favourable conditions (spring/summer or wet seasons). Ducks also tend to make a nest before

breeding, and, after hatching, lead their ducklings to water. Mother ducks are very caring and protective of their young, but may abandon some of their ducklings if they are physically stuck in an area they cannot get out of (such as nesting in an enclosed courtyard) or are not prospering due to genetic defects or sickness brought about by hypothermia, starvation, or disease. Ducklings can also be orphaned by inconsistent late hatching where a few eggs hatch after the mother has abandoned

the nest and led her ducklings to water.[9] Most domestic ducks neglect their eggs and ducklings, and their eggs must be hatched under a broody hen or artificially. Ducklings are vulnerable to hypothermia and drowning if they’re out in deep water for too long as

their plumage is prone to becoming oversaturated with water and their preen oil glands are not yet active. They must rest on land often and depend on the mother duck for warmth and preen oil until they’re between 2-3 weeks old.