Going Quackers for Ducks

This article from Small Farm Canada discusses the advantages of raising ducks, including their hardiness, foraging abilities, and suitability for small farms. It covers aspects such as housing, feeding, and the benefits of integrating ducks into your farming practices.

In her article "Going Quackers for Ducks," Amy Hogue explores the benefits and considerations of incorporating ducks into small farm operations. Historically, European farms prioritized ducks and geese over chickens, a practice that has shifted in modern North American agriculture. However, the advantages of raising ducks remain compelling.

Key Benefits:

• Entertainment and Companionship: Ducks are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, providing endless amusement with their lively antics.

• Market Potential: The Canadian duck industry has experienced growth, with numbers rising from approximately six million in 2015 to six and a half million in 2017. This surge is driven by increasing demand in both Asian markets and the natural food sector, as consumers seek alternatives to traditional poultry.

• Practical Advantages: Ducks are excellent foragers, hardy, and proficient brooders. They offer a higher per-pound market price compared to chickens and can diversify farm offerings without significant additional costs. Certain duck breeds can produce up to 300 eggs annually, rivaling chicken layers.

Management Considerations:

• Housing: Ducks can cohabit with chickens if provided with appropriate accommodations. They require about four square feet per bird, prefer nesting on straw beds rather than perches, and need ground-level nesting boxes. Ensuring predator-proof and accessible housing is crucial, as ducks have limited mobility to escape threats.

• Diet and Foraging: Ducks thrive on a grain-based diet similar to chickens but benefit from ample foraging opportunities. They consume insects, worms, and weeds, contributing to natural pest control and soil fertilization.

• Water Needs: While ducks don't require a pond, access to water for swimming enhances their cleanliness and health. Providing a tub or kiddie pool suffices. Additionally, their drinking water should be deep enough for them to submerge their heads to maintain nasal health.

Hogue concludes that as consumer preferences evolve, ducks present a viable and rewarding addition to small farms, offering both economic benefits and delightful farm dynamics.

Read the full article here: https://www.smallfarmcanada.ca/livestock/going-quackers-for-ducks/