Age and Layers Feed

[FaithArthur123999]

Hello! I have some females and males and have a question regarding feed. Got 6 females about a month ago for my 2 drakes and all is well however the females that all came from the same breeder are different in ages by a few weeks, the 3 blacks are 17 weeks old near 18 weeks and the 3 chocolates have just turned 16 weeks. Ive read to start layers pellets at 18 weeks but how would I start the blacks and not the chocolates on it? Any simple solutions to this? I am pregnant and sufferinf with symptoms so unfortunately I am not out with my ducks as much as I was so I cant quite keep a thorough eye on them during the day like I was. Also does the layers feed affect the males at all? Ive been doing research but there are so many different answers. Any help would be appreciated

 

[fatty and friends]

a normal duck feed is best (i feed mazuri) with oyster shells on the side for the girls

too much calcium for boys or girls who aren't laying eggs is bad for their health

 

[Canadian Wind]

What breed of ducks do you have? Seems a bit early to be starting on the layer feed.

 

[FaithArthur123999]

What breed of ducks do you have? Seems a bit early to be starting on the layer feed.

Hello they are Indian Runner Ducks

 

[Canadian Wind]

Hello they are Indian Runner Ducks

And sorry, I should have asked, but do you live in an area with winter? Mine did not start laying until around March or April this year, and were hatched last year Spring.

I have never fed layer pellets to mine, just allowed them free access to oyster shell.

Hope the pregnancy goes well!

 

[FaithArthur123999]

And sorry, I should have asked, but do you live in an area with winter? Mine did not start laying until around March or April this year, and were hatched last year Spring.

I have never fed layer pellets to mine, just allowed them free access to oyster shell.

Hope the pregnancy goes well!

Hello, I live in the UK and its still very warm, cold wether doesnt normally start until December. Oh thats interesting! Theres so many different options of food for them and its so hard to know what I should he feeding them for layers. Thank you! ❤

 

[Canadian Wind]

Hello, I live in the UK and its still very warm, cold wether doesnt normally start until December. Oh thats interesting! Theres so many different options of food for them and its so hard to know what I should he feeding them for layers. Thank you! ❤

You might have them starting a bit earlier than me, then. Your winters aren't typically bad compared to Ontario.

I keep mine on a Grower ration from Spring to Autumn, and a higher protein one in the winter, but you should do fine with just a grower and the oyster shell.

Let us know if you need any more info!