Ducks are charming, hardy birds that offer eggs, meat, and unparalleled slug and pest control. Many homesteaders find them easier and more entertaining than chickens!
Ducks vs. Chickens
- Cold-hardy: Ducks thrive in cold, wet climates
- Pest control: Excellent slug, snail, and bug hunters
- Eggs: Larger, richer eggs, great for baking
- Health: More disease-resistant than chickens
- Personality: Hilarious, entertaining to watch
Popular Duck Breeds
Egg Layers
- Khaki Campbell: 300+ eggs/year, excellent foragers
- Welsh Harlequin: 280+ eggs/year, calm, beautiful
- Runner: 250+ eggs/year, upright posture, active
Meat Breeds
- Pekin: Fast-growing, large, white feathers
- Muscovy: Lean meat, quiet, excellent foragers
- Rouen: Mallard-like, flavorful meat
Dual-Purpose
- Swedish: Good layers, calm, cold-hardy
- Buff: Friendly, good eggs and meat
- Saxony: Large, good layers, docile
🦆 Water Note
Ducks don't need a pond, but they MUST have water deep enough to submerge their heads to keep nostrils and eyes clean. A kiddie pool works perfectly!
Housing Ducks
Shelter Requirements
- 4-6 square feet per duck
- No roosts needed (ducks sleep on the ground)
- Good ventilation essential
- Dry bedding (straw, shavings) 6+ inches deep
- Predator-proof at night
Outdoor Space
- 15+ square feet per duck in run
- Shade areas for hot weather
- Swimming water (even a small tub)
- Secure fencing (3-foot minimum height)
Feeding Ducks
Feed Types
- Ducklings (0-2 weeks): Unmedicated starter, 20-22% protein
- Growing (2-20 weeks): Grower, 16-18% protein
- Adults: Layer feed or all-flock, 16% protein
Important Supplements
- Niacin: Critical for leg health—add brewer's yeast if using chicken feed
- Grit: Needed for digestion
- Calcium: Free-choice oyster shell for layers
Treats
- Peas (favorite!), corn, greens
- Mealworms, earthworms
- Watermelon, tomatoes
- Avoid: bread, citrus, onions
Duck Eggs
Duck eggs are prized by bakers for their:
- Larger size (50% bigger than chicken eggs)
- Higher fat content (richer flavor)
- More protein (fluffier baked goods)
- Longer shelf life (thicker shells)
Health Care
Keeping Ducks Healthy
- Clean water access always
- Dry, clean bedding
- Protection from predators
- Proper nutrition with niacin
Common Issues
- Bumblefoot: Keep areas clean and dry
- Angel wing: Caused by excess protein in ducklings
- Leg problems: Usually niacin deficiency
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