What should I use to wash my ducks before a show?

It is iportant that any bird that is going to be shown should be clean. Waterfowl have natural oils in their plumage and these should not be removed by the use of strong detergents. Waterfowl are quite good at cleaning themselves, but may need some assistance. Usually, all that is required is a thorough wash and a rinse in warm water. This is best done 24 hours before the show. Once the birds are washed, place them in a clean pen and allow them to dry naturally. Make sure the birds have water to preen themselves.

  Two things the birds cant wash themselves are their feet and bills. Occasionally mud can cake onto the legs, and is stubborn to remove. "Sard wonder spray" works a treat. Spray it onto the legs, wait a minuite or so, and scrub gently with a nail brush and the mud will fall away. Bills should not be cleaned in the same way, gentle persuasion with a soft rag and water usually does the trick.

 A light vegetable oil should be applied to the bill and legs on the morning of the show. This enhances the bills and feet, and makes them really shine. Good presentation could be the difference between first place and no place!