Posted on June 14, 2006 at 18:48:04:

Question?
Hi Chuck,
I recently got 2 two week old Indian runner ducks and at their previous home they were penned in with geese who tormented them, now they are extremely skittish around people and will not come near me and absolutely hate being held. What can I do to get them to not fear people?
thanks, Jan

Answer:
Spend time around them as much as possible and feed them by tossing food to them. Even this way they may already be permanently scared of people. If you hold them, make sure when you let them down it is gentle and that they are not just fighting to get away. Pet and talk gently until they settle then slowly release them. This may take a long time but there is no way to force them to not be afraid. Good Luck