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A duckling is a young duck, the offspring of a duck species. Ducklings are precocial—they hatch with their eyes open, are covered in down, and can move and feed soon after birth. In many species they stay with a parent, following closely and learning to forage and avoid predators.

Appearance and development vary by species. Domestic ducklings are commonly yellow with darker markings, while wild ducklings often have brown or olive down that helps camouflage them in vegetation. They are typically capable of swimming within hours of hatching, and their wings develop over several weeks, with flight feathers appearing later depending on the species.

Diet and behavior: Ducklings feed on small invertebrates such as insects and crustaceans, as well as aquatic plants and seeds. They rely on their mother for protection and guidance, and tend to travel in a line behind her. In captivity, ducklings require appropriate warmth, food, and safe housing to develop.

Habitat and life cycle: Wild ducklings inhabit wetlands, ponds, rivers, and floodplains. The female incubates eggs for roughly 21 to 28 days, depending on species, after which hatchlings emerge and form a brood. Most ducks reach full maturity within several months, though exact timelines vary by species. Predation and environmental conditions influence survival rates.

Conservation and welfare: In natural environments, ducklings face predators such as birds of prey and mammals. Domestic ducklings should be kept in clean, safe conditions with access to water for swimming and feeding, and handled gently to minimize stress.