Duck and Chickens: Pros and Cons

Why would you want to mix Ducks and Chickens?

• Many people enjoy having a variety of breed
• Many people who are allergic to chicken eggs can eat duck eggs
• Depending on your area duck eggs may go for more than chicken eggs

What are the risks? 

• Drakes mating hens can cause severe damage 
• Roosters trying to mate ducks can damage neck feathers
• Though not normal there have been cases of ducks drowning chickens
• Drakes and Roosters may or may not get along 

Please do not consider the risks as your final answer. These are more of a "worst case scenario" but are still a possibility.

FAQ's 

Q: Aren't ducks messy? 

A: Ducks are considered messy than chickens but it is manageable 

Q: Don't ducks carry lots of diseases?

A: Just like any species they can carry diseases but not anymore than other poultry species

Q: Don't Ducks need a pond?

A: No this is one of the biggest misconceptions. Ducks do not require a pond. They are quite happy with a kiddie pool. 

Q: Aren't duck eggs not edible?

A: No duck eggs can be eaten just as you would a chicken egg

Q: There isn't really any market for duck eggs is there? 

A: Actually duck eggs are very popular for hatching eggs and becoming quite popular for baking