By Elisela Rojas & Team redlobito.com

Ducks are charming and beneficial additions to any farm or backyard. To ensure their well-being and productivity, it’s crucial to understand their specific needs in terms of care and feeding. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into every aspect of duck husbandry, providing detailed and practical advice for both novice and experienced duck keepers.

Understanding Duck Behavior and Needs

Social Nature of Ducks

Ducks are highly social animals and thrive in groups. Keeping them in pairs or small flocks is essential for their mental health and overall happiness. Isolation can lead to stress and behavioral issues, so it’s important to provide them with ample opportunities to interact with other ducks.

Habitat Requirements

Creating a suitable living environment for ducks involves considering several factors:

• Shelter: Ducks need a secure shelter to protect them from predators and harsh weather conditions. A well-ventilated, predator-proof coop with ample space is ideal. The shelter should be cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.
• Water Access: Ducks love water and need access to it for both drinking and bathing. Providing a small pond or a kiddie pool can satisfy their bathing needs, which is essential for maintaining their feather health. Ensure the water is clean and changed frequently.
• Foraging Area: Ducks enjoy foraging for insects, worms, and plants. A grassy area where they can roam and search for food is beneficial for their diet and mental stimulation.

Feeding Ducks: A Nutritional Overview

Basic Dietary Requirements

Ducks require a balanced diet to maintain their health, growth, and egg production. Their diet should include:

• Proteins: Essential for growth and egg production, proteins can be provided through commercial duck feed, insects, worms, and small fish.
• Carbohydrates: Grains such as corn, wheat, and barley are good sources of energy.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits can provide necessary vitamins and minerals. Commercial feed often includes these nutrients to ensure a balanced diet.

Feeding Stages

• Ducklings: Newly hatched ducklings need a starter feed with a higher protein content (18-20%). They also require access to clean, fresh water at all times.
• Adolescent Ducks: As ducks grow, their protein requirements decrease. A grower feed with about 16-18% protein is suitable until they reach maturity.
• Adult Ducks: Adult ducks thrive on a layer feed with 16% protein. This supports their egg production and overall health. Supplementing their diet with kitchen scraps, greens, and occasional treats like mealworms can add variety and nutrients.

Supplementary Feeding Tips

• Grit: Ducks do not have teeth and need grit (small stones or sand) to help grind and digest their food. Ensure they have access to grit, especially if they are not free-ranging.
• Calcium: Laying ducks require additional calcium for eggshell production. Crushed oyster shells or a calcium supplement can be added to their diet.

Health Care and Common Issues

Regular Health Checks

Performing regular health checks is vital to catch any potential issues early. Look out for:

• Feather Condition: Healthy ducks have smooth, shiny feathers. Ragged or dull feathers may indicate nutritional deficiencies or parasites.
• Eyes and Nostrils: Clear, bright eyes and clean nostrils are signs of good health. Discharge or swelling can be symptoms of respiratory infections.
• Legs and Feet: Ducks’ legs and feet should be free of sores or swelling. Bumblefoot, a common condition caused by infections, can be prevented with clean living conditions and proper bedding.

Vaccinations and Parasite Control

Consult with a veterinarian to establish a vaccination schedule. Common vaccines for ducks include those for duck viral enteritis and avian influenza. Regularly deworming and checking for external parasites like lice and mites is also crucial.

Breeding and Raising Ducklings

Selecting Breeding Pairs

Choosing healthy, vigorous ducks for breeding ensures strong offspring. Look for traits such as good body condition, bright eyes, and active behavior.

Incubation and Hatching

Ducks can be incubated naturally by the mother or artificially using an incubator. For natural incubation:

• Ensure the nest is in a quiet, safe location.
• Provide the mother with a balanced diet to support her through the incubation period.

For artificial incubation:

• Maintain a temperature of 99.5°F and humidity around 55-65%.
• Turn the eggs several times a day to ensure even development.

Caring for Ducklings

Once hatched, ducklings need:

• Brooder: A warm, draft-free brooder with a heat source. Start with a temperature of 90°F, reducing it by 5°F each week until fully feathered.
• Food and Water: Provide a shallow dish of water to prevent drowning and a starter feed as mentioned earlier.

Seasonal Care Considerations

Winter Care

Ducks are hardy and can withstand cold weather, but they need some extra care in winter:

• Shelter: Ensure their coop is well-insulated and draft-free. Provide extra bedding like straw to help them stay warm.
• Water: Prevent water from freezing by using heated waterers or changing the water frequently.

Summer Care

In hot weather, ducks need:

• Shade: Provide shaded areas to protect them from the sun.
• Hydration: Ensure constant access to fresh water to prevent dehydration. Adding electrolytes to their water can help during extreme heat.

By following these detailed guidelines, you can ensure your ducks lead healthy, productive lives. Proper care and feeding are the foundations of successful duck keeping, whether you’re raising them for eggs, meat, or simply as pets.