Are ducks right for me?

[Susan12]

I love ducks mine free range with my chickens I have no issues with fighting.

 

[lomine]

I have chickens and ducks together with no serious issues (just minor dominance pushing/pecking sometimes) but I think if you aren't totally sure then you shouldn't get them. As already stated, you'd very likely have problems with a 2:1 ratio. I would not advise having two drakes with no duck hens around chicken hens. When their hormones hit they are going to want to mate something and you don't want it to be your chickens. The anatomy is not compatible and they could seriously injure or kill a chicken hen.

 

[KLC321]

Thanks so much for all the good advice. We decided not to get the ducks - too risky with the possibility of 2 drakes and 1 female.

 

[sourland]

To the OP, given the circumstances, you have made the proper decision.

 

[happy duck]

That was the best idea. The good thing is that if you decide you want them again then there is always another chance!

 

[snow5164]

Thanks so much for the help! I don't think I'll get the ducks- not sure I can get the Male/ female ratio right & I don't want problems in my flock.

Good for you, it’s not up to you to save the world ,

No is an answer and sometimes we let ourselves get to overwhelmed. The dynamics in your chicken flock is very important .