Frequently asked questions
You can find answers to our most frequently asked questions by searching on a keyword or category on the right.
Alternatively, why not ask our virtual assistant Annie.
Ducklings in a swimming pool
The chlorine in a swimming pool may not be harmful but ducklings may get waterlogged if they can’t get out of a pool.
In the event that ducklings are found to have made their way into a swimming pool, the chlorine would only be harmful to them if they were in the pool on a long-term basis. So don't be tempted to feed them, as this would encourage the ducklings and any adult/s with them to stay in the area.
If ducklings are seen in a swimming pool for just the first couple of days after hatching, then the mother duck will probably lead them to a lake/river, etc. after this time, so there shouldn't be any long term effect from the chlorine.
However, the ducklings may need some assistance to get out of the pool if it has vertical sides and no shallow end. A gently sloping plank of wood, or similar, can be placed into the water at the pool's edge to help the ducklings get out. If they stay in the pool for too long, they are at risk of saturation and/or the cold at this early stage of their lives.
See also our FAQs on Ducklings and waterproofing and Mother ducks and their ducklings.
See a list of our FAQs.
