My ducks don't have access to a pond but have a clean kiddie pool in the summer and fresh grass. They eat chicken layer pellets and cracked corn occasionally. The eggs taste almost exactly the same to me and everybody who buys them from me. I have enjoyed their large size and good fresh taste so much, I got less chickens and more ducks! I tried duck eggs years ago from a flock who lived on a farm pond; It was fishy tasting and disgusting. I have no idea whether that has any bearing but my eggs are wonderful (the make nice fluffy pastries as well). By the way, I have Pekin, Rouen, Swedish, and Runner.