Backyard ducks, how messy are they?

[danceswithronin]

I do know if you're going to live in a neighborhood with neighbors directly on top of you, and noise control might be a concern, Muscovy ducks are "quackless" ducks - they make a hissing noise instead. So you wouldn't have to worry about the quacking annoying your neighbors to the point of complaint.

 

[bluemerle]

This is an example of a preferred afternoon activity for ducks. They also like to mix their food with their water, their poop with their water ( duck rule #1- a duck must poop within 10 seconds of entering a fresh clean pool), and mud with everything. If you find this endearing, great! Ducks are for you! If this is horrifying, then maybe they aren’t

If ducks do not have access to a lake ..... then they will create one themselves.

In all seriousness, I really do recommend ducks! They're a joy to have around, and for sure the funniest animals you will ever see. All of the downsides can be managed.

 

[HelplessHomeSteader]

The name says it all "water foul"

 

[Animal family]

Ducks are messy! But not as destructive as chickens.
My 2 have access to most of the yard and they dont really mess much up.
They need constant access to water, both to drink and to get into, and they usually dunk their food in the water because they can’t eat without water.
Mine don’t smell at all, but the girl duck can be loud. Not constantly, just a few times a day.
My ducks have been the greatest joy, they are always up to something and I love watching them.