Broody Ducks

[des7598]

I have three female ducks which I have contained in my front yard due to excess Drakes (15 to 3) .There are some drakes in the front yard with them. I was going to let the ducks brood and hatch at least one batch of ducklings. I know they lay somewhere around 20 to 30 eggs before deciding to set the nest. There are two nests and they are both within that range. The last several days have been back in the 20s overnight and I am afraid these eggs will freeze before the ducks decide to set them. but I did not want to collect the egg and have the ducks start re-nesting if they are close to doing so now. The eggs are weather protected (one is in a new dog house and the other is in my outside "nursery" cage.) My question is how will I know if they are even interested in setting their nest? I have no issue with collecting their eggs and incubating them (or selling them). This is my first year with ducks laying and thought it would be interesting to see them hatch and raise their own flock. (at least once). Does anyone know how to tell if a duck will be interested in setting her next? I have two Pekins and one Mallard. Is there anything I can do to keep the eggs from freezing if I need to give them more time.? Or should I just wait for until May or June?

 

[Isaac 0]

You have 15 males and three females, I wouldn't even think about hatching until you get that ratio figured out because its a given you're going to get more males with your hatch.

 

[des7598]

Thank you. I have tried getting rid of my drakes. I even offered 2 drakes in exchange for 1 female. but no rehoming offers. With the current situation, the auctions are closed. I know I definitely don't want more drakes, I have one that chases my goose and gander as it is. I had pretty much decided that I would be collecting the eggs since we are in for snow tonight. but thought I would ask the question anyway.