Acidic water

[Bumbelina]

My ducks aren't producing many eggs and sometimes they are very soft. I just got my water tested and the ph is 5.9, it's also high in iron. I got a whole house filter but it doesn't filter the water that goes thru the outdoor spicket that fills the duck bowls and pools. I don't think I really want to filter all that water and end up having to change those filters more often. Anyone else have this problem and know of a filter I can add to my garden hose or spicket?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Soft eggs are generally from stress. Some ducks don't lay regular, and laying goes up, down, and stops throughout the season.

 

[Dr.GarryTTucker]

I agree with oldhen. Check for things that would stress and maybe check minerals in feed.

 

[lazy gardener]

Check with your county ag extension office and speak to their poultry expert. Otherwise, do a google search on "how does water pH affect quality of egg shells?"

You may be able to add a buffering agent to your water for the birds.

How old are these birds, how long have they been laying, what are you feeding them, what is the mill date of the feed, and are you offering extra supplemental calcium?

 

[chickens really]

Do you supply Oyster shell?..