Chick/ Duck starter issue?

[Wifezilla]

Sprouted grains are great. When you sprout them you change a starch in to a veggie.

 

[maralynn28]

I got my "Storey's" book yesterday!!! Looked up angelwing and protein, he does recommend no more than 18% from 0-2, and 16% up to 10 wks, there is no recommendation beyond that.

It says "IN GENERAL, diets containing more than 16% protein greatly increase chance of wing disorder." Ducklings raised outside with access to swimming and lots of exercise don't tend to have problems.

I think for now I'm going to keep food as is, but it has been such nice weather lately I'm going to start putting them outside for just a little bit during the warmest part of the day so they can forage and get some exercise. They were out yesterday and didn't want to come back in! lol

 

[LALADY1101]

Ive always feed my ducks a nonmedicated chick developer. I ran out and was at the feed store yesterday. I bought gamebird starter that has 28% protein, which I was concerned was too high. I have 16 baby mallards, one rescued wood duck (probably about 3 or 4 days old), 2 1-2 yr old Mandarins, 4 mth old pekins and Rouens that range in age from 3 1/2 yrs to about 10 months. We also give everyone a little scratch everyday. Can that much protein hurt the older ducks? I had serious reservations about buying it and won't get it again when it's gone. DUMB QUESTION........what are rolled oats and where do I get them?

 

[FenDruadin]

Rolled oats are what you buy at the grocery store in those round cartons. Quaker Oats is the most well-known brand, but standard store-brand oats will do just fine. Better yet, find them at a natural foods store in the bulk bins and you can probably buy them even cheaper. Don't know if it saves money, but it does effectively reduce the protein levels.

 

[Wifezilla]

Can that much protein hurt the older ducks?

Mine eat that all the time. They also get greens every day. No problems.​