WATER-FOWL 131 



are returned at once to the water this generally is not 

 necessary. The birds need not be caught again, as the twine 

 will slough off as the wing heals. 



Most water-fowl breed early, in April or May, or even in 

 March if the season is moderate. At this time the greatest 

 care must be taken to avoid disturbance of the birds. Espe- 

 cially quarrelsome sorts, such as Egyptian Geese and Shel- 

 drakes, should be watched and prevented from persecuting 

 or even killing their companions. Most species are monog- 

 amous, and follow their instincts closely. The Mallard is 

 a notable exception, one drake to two or three ducks being 

 a suitable proportion to insure the best results. 



Ducks are very shy about laying, and if alarmed while 

 nesting are very likely never to return. If the eggs are to 

 be removed, the safest method is to watch until the full 

 clutch has been deposited. Under exceptional conditions 

 good results in rearing young may sometimes be attained 

 by allowing the duck to perform her natural functions. But 

 ordinarily it is far safer to entrust the eggs to a bantam or 

 other small fowl. 



When the hen comes off to feed, the eggs should be cov- 

 ered with a soft cloth, in emulation of the habit of ducks. 

 It is necessary also to dampen the eggs frequently with 

 tepid water, particularly as incubation becomes well ad- 

 vanced. 



The eggs of most ducks hatch in four weeks. Young 

 divers frequently appear several days sooner and Teal re- 

 quire but three weeks. The ducklings will not require food 

 for the first twenty-four hours and should remain undis- 

 turbed in the nest with the foster-mother. At the end of 

 this period they should be removed to a small coop and 

 run, as described for pheasants. 



The treatment of ducklings is very similar to that of 

 young game birds. They should not be allowed to entei; 



