I am new to chicken keeping, I have 7 and am totally besotted with them. Today a mallard duck has come into the chicken run. I think he may be injured as he is quite docile. The chickens are quite aggressive with him. I am concerned he may pass on bugs to my chicks. Is this an issue. We are on the bank of a rhyne, quite a few ducks in the area. Any advice welcome. :)
I have hens and know that they hate any newcomers with a passion; hen, duck or anything else for that matter.
I know several people that keep hens and ducks together without any problem. I cannot advise on diseases but hopefully someone here will give you some help. If you want them to get used to the duck I would suggest creating a barrier between them for a few days until they get used to each other.
I am glad you are getting on with your chickens, they are brilliant fun - enjoy.