Australian hatcheries??

[mareetina]

Are there any hatcheries in Australia that sell ducklings? I've looked everywhere and can't seem to find anywhere?

Thanks

 

[Butteryscotch]

Well, I live out of town (sort of) 2h south of Canberra... and I'm currently fighting the same battle. I have found a few hatcheries... the one that springs to mind most is http://www.countrycacklers.net/index.html as they have the most choice... but their prices aren't really that affordable for me (yet). But, no fowl are as cheap as chickens (except maybe quail) in this country. Sadly less and less people are interested in this field anymore... so hence the prices are high.\\

Though, once I have my ducks up and running (probably a year before they're breeding), I'd be more than happy to sell you some Muscovy/Indian Runner day olds (or older if you like).

 

[mareetina]

Thanks Butteryscotch, sounds like we are in similar positions Hopefully I will have plenty in the coming year or two.
Yes I have read their website and prices seemed a little steep compared to what I have already been able to purchase.
Do you have a plan of what you want to do with your ducks?

 

[jducour]

I can't believe how much they are charging for a single duck! Yikes! I will say though, I wish they charged more for ducklings where I am from, people just buy them without thinking and are not prepared. They are only $4.00 each, so there are a lot of impulse buys that get dumped when they aren't cute and fuzzy any more. I bet if they were $20.00 only the people who were prepared to care for them would buy them.

 

[mareetina]

Very true.

I finally found Peak Poultry supplies in Qld that air freight there day olds if anyone else is looking.
http://www.freewebs.com/peakpoultrysupplies/ratesservices.htm

 

[Butteryscotch]

My plan was to run them out at the farm, partly to clear put the snails ( they were only introduced there in the last few years, so I'd like to get rid of them again), partly to give the maremma something to guard, partly for a semi-consistent meat/egg supply, partly to run with the guinea fowl (as they're less likely to bail if their bad-flying friends are around... but mainly just to give the place a nicer look.

 

[mareetina]

Sounds like a great plan. We are wanting them for eggs, hence the Campbell's and pekins. Glad to have found someone who can supply some.
We did think about getting a Maremma, I had one many years ago and he was very protective. Not sure what our other dog would think of that idea.

 

[Butteryscotch]

We got ours as a pup 7-8 years ago, and has certainly been worth the effort of keeping around. From what I've seen, if you're okay with another dog being around, they are. They're extremely obedient (when you're around at least

) .