Raising Ducklings
Successfully raising ducklings from hatch requires specific care distinct from raising chicks. Key areas include providing appropriate heat, ensuring correct nutrition (especially niacin), managing water safely, and protecting them until they are robust enough for the outdoors.
- Introduce Swimming Gradually and Supervised4
Wait until ducklings are at least 1-2 weeks old (some recommend longer, 4 weeks) before offering short, supervised swims in lukewarm water.
📌 best practice4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
🛠️ Shallow pan/sink, Towels
- Set Up a Proper Brooder5
Use a draft-free container (brooder) with absorbent bedding and adequate space for movement.
📌 diy4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
🛠️ Plastic tote, Stock tank, Cardboard box (temporary), Bedding
- Provide a Safe Heat Source5
Use a heat lamp or heat plate designed for poultry, maintaining the correct temperature.
📌 commercial4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
🛠️ Heat lamp or Brooder heat plate, Thermometer
- Feed Waterfowl Starter Feed5
Provide a commercial starter feed specifically formulated for waterfowl.
📌 commercial4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
🛠️ Shallow feeder
- Use Safe Waterers5
Provide water in shallow drinkers that ducklings cannot easily climb into or drown in.
📌 commercial4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
🛠️ Chick waterer or shallow dish, Pebbles/Marbles (optional)
- Protect from Drafts but Ensure Ventilation4
Keep the brooder in a location free from cold drafts, but ensure there is still fresh air exchange.
📌 best practice4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
🛠️ Brooder
- Transition Gradually to Outdoor Housing4
Introduce ducklings to the outdoors for short periods on warm, sunny days once they are partially feathered (around 3-5 weeks), gradually increasing time outside.
📌 best practice4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
🛠️ Secure temporary outdoor pen (optional)