Recent content by calmlake

Kale is not only good for ducks and geese it is cheap when purchased from a local vegetable wholesaler. People with large flocks like mine can easily use a bushel of kale in a few days but it has to be kept cool to avoid spoiling. Btw a bushel of kale is about 11 dollars, whole seeded...

the rule of thumb is 3 square feet per duck. I would go with the 16x8. be sure it is predator proof or it will become a death trap. Bill

ducks can live from 6 years to as much as 20 with geese known to reach 40 to 50 if well cared for. as a rule smaller breeds like mallards can live longer than larger breeds like pekins but I know of at least one pekin that is 19 and still going so they should have some time left coming to them...

the possibility is indeed there but unlikely in a healthy flock of domestics. we have 50 domestic resident ducks, one imprint goose and about 9 wild mallards (that like the food here it seems). so far since 2005 no problems. sometimes we can worry too much. ducks are pretty hardy and relatively...

I personally would not use wire floors, however convenient it might be for the human. duck feet and legs are their weak link and conditions like bumblefoot, split webs and sprains can occur. better to put a layer of straw on the cage floor and change it daily than risk permanent injury. Bill Mt...

we use a water and bait system here at the sanctuary. the bait really stinks so hang it somewhere downwind. flies are drawn to it from all over our property and the jar has to be emptied about once a week and restunk but it works really well if you have a strong stomach when filling or emptying...

ducks can go outside in an enclosed pen as you describe in weather warm enough. they should be at least in 80 degree temps the first 4 weeks until they feather and can keep their bodies warm. a heat lamp is in order until then. Bill

the eggs are perfectly fine but should be collected and refrigerated daily. we use ours for baking and making batters and they are good in waffles, scrambled eggs or omlettes but a bit strong when fried or hard boiled. Bill

the rule of thumb is three ducks per drake, he may still have a preferred mate.

muscovy are native to the tropics and must have adequate shelter in winter. both males and females do not quack, ducks coo and twitter and drakes hiss or breathe loudly. they are prolific egg layers and must have wings clipped as they can fly, males less well as they age and put on weight. they...

I agree put the hen with the other hen. your male might easily hurt her if he is as horny as you say. what breed is the male? and is there a female or three you might consider getting for him? he really just wants to mate (it is spring) and his aggression is probably frustration. Bill...

It is aggression but not the kind we are used to. You have one duck and ducks are flock animals controlled by pecking order. your duck has yet to decide who is boss there, you or him. he is also probably very horny with no female (you really need to get him a lady) and will try to dominate and...

there is a good chance you have white muscovys. they may grow up to have pretty blue eyes too. muscovys are my favorites. Bill

for those in search of duck diapers. http://www.thegoosesmother.com/id47.html Bill

Hi Melinda, if you mean diaper wearing housepets, pekins or female muscovys are the most people friendly. a close third is the khaki campbell who can become so bonded they cry when you leave the room. mind you, a pet duck can live 15-20 years so be sure you fully understand the care requirements...