Is my duck ok?

[jwpuhl]

I have two 5 month old ducks that I have raised from ducklings. Today I went to get the male out of the coop and he couldnt walk he was dragging his leg behind him after he applied any pressure. it was as if the left leg would slip out from under him. After watchin him for about an hour he is walking around on it and just limping lightly. Do ducks legs fall asleep? should i be worried if he is walking around on it now? Thanks i appreciate any help.

[Altair]

Have you noticed anything visually on the leg or foot?

[jwpuhl]

no his leg looks the same he is still having trouble bearing weigh but he can walk a lil bit on it '

[Oregon Swedes]

Ducks can get sprained tendons and twisted ankles, just like people do. Time is the cure for those

I suggest that you make sure he is getting enough niacin. Niacin deficiency is always the first suspect in lame ducks.

Then check the bottom of his feet to make sure he doesn't have Bumblefoot.

[Altair]

This seems like a no-brainer but if he's got access to deep enough water to bear his weight that'll ease healing if it is a minor sprain. I say that because I know at least one person with ducks who only has them on a half-full kiddie pool some of the time.

[Angela]

You're absolutely correct, it is a no brainer....
Most likely, it's tendonitus...which is pretty common, especially in young, growing, larger breed ducks. I've lost a couple this year due to too much weight, too quickly. Do the kiddie pool thing, it will help...a lot. Give the leg a chance to rest.
I have never seen "bumble foot" in my water fowl. Chickens, yes...but not ducks. I'm sure it happens...but I've not had it.

I would take a really good look at his diet. Protein levels and such.

Good luck.

[Evy]

Don't mistake the normal callouses on a duck's toes for Bumblefoot either !