What To Do When You Find A Duckling?

If you’ve found and caught a duckling, please do the following:

1.  Keep it dry and warm – Ducklings are very vulnerable to cold until they get most of their adult feathers. A combination of wet and cold is almost a certain death sentence for a small duckling, so the number one killer we encounter is hypothermia. It will enjoy being close to your skin and will like nestling in your hair if it’s long.

If it is after 8 p.m., you have two options:

a. We recommend that you take the duckling(s) to one of the following veterinarians, and they’ll get it to us the following morning:

• Blue Pearl – Tampa (813) 933-8944

• Blue Pearl – Brandon (813) 571-3303

• Valrico Animal Clinic – (813) 681-6389

b. If you can keep the duckling overnight. Click Here for overnight duckling care instructions.

2.  Call or text us at (813) 616-9639.

3.  Send us a photo of the duckling(s) if you can. Different types of ducklings require different types of care, and some require the care of wildlife rehabbers. If we can see a photo of the one(s) you find, we’ll be able to help you get the duckling to the right organization.

4.  Travel with the duckling(s) – If you travel with the duckling, do what you can to keep it warm and comforted until you reach us. Carrying it against your skin, and even in your hair, will be best.