How to Care for Ducks: A Guide to Happy and Healthy Birds

Ducks can make wonderful pets or additions to smallholdings, offering plenty of personality and a source of fresh eggs. While they’re generally hardy and low-maintenance, ducks do require proper care and attention to ensure they thrive. Here’s everything you need to know about looking after ducks, from housing to feeding and health care.

1. Provide a Safe Living Environment

Ducks need a secure and comfortable space to live. A duck house or shelter should provide protection from predators, extreme weather, and direct sunlight. Ensure the house is well-ventilated, dry, and easy to clean.

A secure outdoor area is also essential for exercise and foraging. Ducks enjoy grazing on grass and exploring their surroundings, so a fenced area or enclosure is ideal. The fencing should be sturdy and high enough to deter predators such as foxes.

2. Access to Water

While ducks don’t necessarily need a large pond, they do require access to water for swimming, bathing, and cleaning their feathers. A small paddling pool or a purpose-built duck pond works well. Ensure the water is cleaned regularly to prevent algae and bacteria build-up.

Water is also essential for eating, as ducks often dip their food in water before swallowing. Provide fresh drinking water daily in a shallow bowl to make it easily accessible.

3. Feeding Your Ducks

Ducks need a balanced diet to stay healthy. A mix of commercial duck pellets and grains such as wheat or barley provides essential nutrients. You can supplement their diet with vegetables, leafy greens, and small amounts of fruit. Ducks also enjoy foraging for insects and slugs, which can reduce pests in your garden.

Avoid feeding ducks bread, as it lacks nutritional value and can harm their digestive systems.

4. Health and Hygiene

Regularly check your ducks for signs of illness, such as lethargy, feather loss, or changes in eating habits. Keep their living area clean by removing droppings and replacing bedding frequently to prevent diseases. Ensure they’re vaccinated if necessary and consult a vet experienced in poultry care if you notice any health issues.

Key Takeaways:

• Provide a secure living environment with a duck house and fenced area.
• Ducks need access to clean water for drinking, bathing, and swimming.
• Feed them a diet of duck pellets, grains, and vegetables while avoiding bread.
• Maintain good hygiene and monitor their health regularly.

With proper care, ducks can be a delightful and rewarding addition to your garden or smallholding, bringing joy and charm to your outdoor space.