Backyard ducks

Overview of Raising Backyard Ducks

Raising backyard ducks is an increasingly popular activity for those seeking fresh eggs, quality meat, natural pest control, or simply enjoyable pets. Ducks are known for their hardiness, unique personalities, and delicious, large eggs.

Investment

Initial costs involve purchasing ducklings or adult ducks (ranging from $10-$100+ per duck depending on breed and age). Setup requires a predator-proof coop ($100-$1000+ if buying pre-made, less if DIY), secure fencing for a run ($50-$300+), feeders and waterers ($20-$50), bedding like straw or shavings ($20-$50 initial), and a water source for dipping/swimming (e.g., kiddie pool $15-$30, stock tank $100+, DIY pond $100-$500+). Ongoing costs include feed ($20-$50+ per month for a small flock), bedding replacement, potential vet care, and water usage.

General Requirements

• Shelter: A secure, dry, well-ventilated but draft-free coop is needed for overnight protection. Minimum 4 sq ft per duck inside.
• Run: A safe outdoor area for foraging and exercise. Minimum 10-20 sq ft per duck.
• Water: Constant access to clean drinking water deep enough for ducks to submerge their entire head is essential for eye and nostril health. Access to swimming water (pool or pond) is highly recommended for cleanliness and well-being.
• Food: Appropriate commercial waterfowl feed or non-medicated chick starter supplemented with niacin.
• Predator Protection: Coops and runs must be secure against common predators like raccoons, foxes, hawks, and dogs.

How to Raise Backyard Ducks

Ducklings require a brooder with a heat source (starting around 90°F and decreasing weekly) for the first several weeks. They need waterfowl-specific starter feed (higher in niacin than chick starter) and shallow waterers they can't drown in. Introduce swimming gradually after a few weeks when they develop waterproofing oils. Transition them to the main coop/run once fully feathered and weather permits. Daily care involves providing fresh food and water, cleaning waterers frequently, managing bedding (ducks are messy!), and collecting eggs.

How to Feed and Care for Backyard Ducks

Feed a balanced commercial waterfowl feed appropriate for their age (starter, grower, layer). Supplement with greens (lettuce, kale), vegetables (peas, corn, cucumber), and occasional fruits (avoid citrus). Oats and mealworms can be treats. Crucially, ducks need more niacin than chickens, especially when young; supplement if using chick starter. Provide grit to aid digestion if they aren't free-ranging extensively. Never feed bread as it offers poor nutrition and can cause health problems like Angel Wing. Ensure constant access to clean water for drinking and head-dipping.

Benefits of Ducks Over Chickens

• Hardiness: Generally healthier, more resistant to parasites (mites), and more tolerant of cold and heat.
• Eggs: Often larger, richer eggs, prized for baking; many breeds lay consistently through winter.
• Temperament: Less aggressive pecking order, often integrate newcomers more easily.
• Landscaping: Less destructive; they don't scratch up gardens like chickens (though they can trample).
• Pest Control: Excellent foragers, consuming slugs, snails, insects, and grubs.
• Noise: Females quack, males are raspier/quieter. Some find the noise less intrusive than chicken cackling, though this varies by breed and individual.

Special Requirements for Backyard Ducks

• Water Access: Non-negotiable need for water deep enough to submerge their heads. Swimming water is highly beneficial.
• Mess: Ducks are significantly messier than chickens, especially around water sources. Plan for mud management and frequent cleaning.
• Niacin: Higher dietary niacin requirement than chickens.
• Housing: Ground-level access to coops is preferred as they don't roost like chickens and aren't great climbers.