Not sure what to do about a ducks nest?

[ureterr1blemuriel]

Sorry if this isn’t the correct place to post but I need a bit of advice. We’ve just come across a ducks nest in our garden, it was hidden in a corner under last years xmas tree that my DH was just about to take to the recycling centre. As he picked it up he saw the nest/duck and immediately put the tree back.

Mum has now flown away, I’m hoping she comes back but how long before I should contact a wildlife centre? It’s probably quite an important incubation time 😬 luckily it’s hot today

Legally you need to leave the nest alone even if it is a bit of a nuisance for you.

How long ago did she fly away from the next? Maybe put down some duck pellets, water and some potatoes. Don't put them right near the nest but where she could see them etc. That might entice her back but I'd phone them now and just ask for advice if I'm honest.

Nest*

I imagine she'll come back, just stay away from it.
Maybe give it an hour or so?

First thing to do is to read this lovely thread 😊😊

Stay away and don’t go near the nest again and she should come back

Thanks for your replies - I’m a bit surprised, it’s a newbuild house but we have a biggish garden and have done lots of planting last year so she must have felt safe here. She’s picked a tucked away spot and it’s no bother.

It’s a secure garden so the poor little mites will need some help getting out when they hatch. We were planning on making a few hedgehog holes in the fences but we’ll need to leave the gate open for the ducklings I think. We live in the edge of a village so it’s pretty safe out the front and everyone has dogs with few cats about.

Thanks ninkanink - will have a good read later. I wish I had a pond like that! 😍

She’s back! Phew!

We’ve left some rainwater out in a makeshift bath/bowl and will see what suitable food I can find. How exciting!

Oh so glad she's back, OP.
How exciting. You'll have to keep us updated 🦆

@ureterr1blemuriel

She’s back! Phew!

We’ve left some rainwater out in a makeshift bath/bowl and will see what suitable food I can find. How exciting!

They like oats and other not too processed cereal if you have any. Also frozen peas