Wet Feather in Ducks & Geese: Causes, Prevention, Treatment

The joy of keeping ducks and geese lies in their generally hardy nature and the pleasure they bring to any garden with sufficient space. Yet, a common issue known as wet feather can affect these waterfowl. Normally, their feathers are waterproof, vital for protecting them against becoming waterlogged while swimming.

Ducks and geese preen regularly, spreading oil from their preen gland to waterproof their feathers. The feathers have tiny hooks called barbicelli that interlock to keep water out. This natural oiling and feather structure let water roll off, inspiring the phrase "water off a duck's back."

Ducklings and goslings can swim within a day of hatching because their mother oils their feathers. Incubated young, however, lack this coating and can easily get chilled when wet, so they must be kept warm after exposure to water.

Why Does Wet Feather Occur?

Wet feather happens when the delicate balance of feather oiling and structure fails. Several factors can lead to this condition:

• Dirty or Contaminated Water: Swimming in water polluted with mud, algae, or debris can coat feathers and remove essential oils, reducing waterproofing.
• Lack of Preening: Stress, overcrowding, injury, or limited water access can prevent birds from properly preening, breaking down the feather structure.
• Parasites: External parasites such as lice and mites may cause over-preening or feather damage, breaking the interlocking barbicelli.
• Compromised Preen Gland: A poorly functioning gland, often due to poor diet lacking vitamins B and E, reduces oil production, affecting feather waterproofing.
• Environmental Changes: Moving birds from dry to wet environments without gradual transition can temporarily cause the condition, although healthy birds usually recover.

Some breeders consider wet feather incurable and advise against breeding affected birds to promote responsible ownership and protect genetic health.

Recognising Wet Feather: Symptoms to Watch For

Typical signs include:

• Feathers remain soaked and damp long after swimming, losing their usual glossy sheen.
• Outer feathers are most often affected, but flight feathers can also become waterlogged.
• Affected birds may refuse to enter water, increasing the risk of further issues.
• Muddy feathers are a common trigger, as mud strips away protective oils.
• Birds become prone to chilling and discomfort due to loss of insulation.

Preventing Wet Feather: Best Practices

Prevention focuses on maintaining good bird health and environment:

1. Provide Access to Clean Water: Regularly supply fresh, clean water for swimming and bathing to encourage normal preening.
2. Avoid Muddy Conditions: Keep ducks and geese away from excessive mud which can strip oils from feathers.
3. Feed a Nutrient-Rich Diet: Include good quality wheat and balanced feeds rich in vitamins B and E to promote oil production.
4. Routine Parasite Control: Treat birds promptly for external parasites to prevent feather damage.
5. Allow Ample Space and Reduce Stress: Avoid overcrowding and minimise stressors to help maintain natural behaviours including preening.

Treating Wet Feather: Steps to Recovery

If birds develop wet feather, early action can aid recovery:

1. Isolate Affected Birds: Provide a warm, dry environment away from mud and stressful conditions.
2. Maintain Access to Clean Water: Encourage gentle bathing and preening without forcing birds into deep water.
3. Feed a Balanced Diet: Ensure high-quality feed supports preen gland function and healing.
4. Address Parasites: Treat infestations with appropriate products under expert guidance.
5. Monitor Feather Regrowth: Recovery may take weeks; molting allows new, healthy feathers to replace damaged ones.

Conclusion

Ensuring ducks and geese have continual access to clean water, a nutrient-rich diet, and a stress-free environment is key to preventing and managing wet feather. Though it can be a challenging condition, with proper care, most healthy birds regain their waterproof feathers and comfortable life. Always prioritise humane treatment and responsible breeding to support the welfare of these delightful waterfowl.