Unexpected arrival at Powderham in time for Christmas

The Walled Garden at Powderham Castle, Exeter is home to a number of friendly furry pets including ponies, a donkey, goats and guinea pigs amongst many others. The manager of the Walled Garden, Maria Moyse explains:

“We have had a hen lay on duck eggs before and hatched a flock of ducklings, but this is really rare as ducks aren’t known for their maternal instinct, especially an Indian Runner crossed Muscovy one! Add to this the fact that we are a bit early for the typical hatching season… so you can understand our surprise.”

The chicks were born on Monday 17th December and their surrogate mother is keeping them warm under her wing, along with the help of a heat lamp. They are yet to be named so any suggestions welcome!