Getting Ducks to Lay Eggs Consistently
While many duck breeds are prolific layers, various factors can influence the frequency and consistency of egg production. Issues like improper lighting, poor nutrition, stress, age, or health problems can cause ducks to lay fewer eggs or stop laying altogether.
- Provide Sufficient Daylight Hours (Natural or Artificial)5
Ensure laying ducks receive 14-17 hours of light per day, supplementing with artificial light during shorter days (fall/winter).
📌 best practice4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
🛠️ Light fixture, Timer, Low-wattage bulb
- Feed a Quality Layer Feed5
Provide a balanced commercial layer feed formulated for waterfowl or chickens.
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🛠️ Feeder, Waterfowl/Chicken Layer Feed
- Offer Supplemental Calcium (Oyster Shell)5
Provide free-choice crushed oyster shell in a separate container for laying ducks.
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🛠️ Small container, Crushed oyster shell
- Minimize Stress4
Maintain a consistent routine and protect ducks from predators, extreme weather, bullying, and frequent changes.
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🛠️ Secure coop/run, Consistent routine
- Ensure Constant Access to Clean Water5
Provide unlimited access to fresh, clean drinking water.
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🛠️ Deep waterer
- Check for Hidden Nests4
Search the coop and run thoroughly for hidden clutches of eggs.
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🛠️ None
- Manage Broodiness3
Discourage hens from going broody (sitting on eggs to hatch them) if egg production is the priority.
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🛠️ Broody breaker cage (optional)
- Consider Duck Age and Molting4
Acknowledge that very young ducks haven't started laying, older ducks lay less, and all ducks stop laying during their annual molt.
📌 best practice4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
🛠️ None