Keeping ducklings is a fun and rewarding experience, but they do require proper care to grow into healthy adult ducks. Here’s a simple guide to help you get started.
Brooder Setup:
Ducklings need a warm, safe space for their first few weeks.
Temperature: Start at 90°F the first week, then reduce by 5°F each week until fully feathered (around 5–7 weeks).
Bedding: Use pine shavings (never cedar). Avoid newspaper—it’s too slippery and can cause leg problems.
Space: About ½ square foot per duckling at first, increasing as they grow.
Safety: Keep the brooder draft-free and protected from pets.
Heat & Light:
A heat lamp or brooder plate works well. Watch their behavior:
Huddled together = too cold
Staying far from heat = too hot
Evenly spread out = just right
Ducklings don’t require extra light beyond normal daylight unless you’re encouraging feeding in the first few days.
Feeding:
Feed a starter feed (20–22% protein) designed for waterfowl if possible. If using chick starter, ensure it is non-medicated (ducklings are sensitive to certain medications like amprolium).
Add brewer’s yeast (about 1 tablespoon per cup of feed) if using chick feed to boost niacin, which supports healthy leg development.
Provide fresh water at all times. Ducklings drink a lot and need water deep enough to dip their bills.
Water & Cleanliness
Ducklings love water—but they are messy!
Use a shallow waterer to prevent drowning.
Change water frequently to prevent bacteria buildup.
Keep bedding dry to avoid respiratory issues and foot problems.
Outdoor Time:
Once they are partially feathered and temperatures are warm (above 70°F), they can have supervised outdoor time. Avoid cold, wet, or windy conditions.
Ducklings are not waterproof until they develop adult feathers, so don’t allow unsupervised swimming early on.
Transition to Coop:
At 6–8 weeks, when fully feathered, they can move outdoors permanently (weather permitting). Ensure:
Predator-proof housing
Proper ventilation
At least 4 square feet per duck inside shelter
Secure nighttime enclosure
Raising ducklings takes daily care, but they grow quickly and are hardy birds once mature. Their curious personalities and gentle quacks make them a wonderful addition to a backyard flock.
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