Choosing duck breeds

[TwentyOneChickens]

So, I'm learning more about ducks every day. I am looking into getting ducks in a few years.

I need to choose breeds, though. I don't want meat ducks, and eggs aren't necessary but I'm not against them. The main reason I might keep ducks is because I think they will be nice pets to keep around and they will keep the garden almost bug-free.

What are some good breeds for those needs? Also, I know that ducks enjoy water. If I have their pen near the garden and the creek, will the creek satisfy them to get wet?

Thanks!

 

[Texag87]

I am biased but what you are seeking is Runner Ducks . They were bred for cleaning a crop field and being run to the next. There is no meat on their bones so they are not meat birds.

 

[Conan]

The only ducks I have that clean my garden, and don't destroy every living thing in sight are call ducks.

I read all the hype about folks using them for slug, and weed control, but my standard ducks (mixed flock of Cayuga, Welsh Harlequins, Magpie, runner) destroyed all sprouts and any green thing they could find. They are non discerning. Shoot, they even ate my onion and garlic sprouts, which is something I was assured that they would not touch. They are amazing in the orchard, though. They do a great job of pest management out there.

My call ducks, on the other hand, are excellent bug/slug patrol, and leave my plants alone. I do always plant extra lettuce for the birds, so I don't mind if they munch on that.
I will say that I allow all my birds in the garden during winter. They do a fantastic job of maintaining the beds, and aerating the soil. I kick them out as soon as it's time to plant.

 

[chickens really]

Call Ducks are fantastic little birds. Clipping wings is possibly needed. They don't need much feed daily and fit into smaller enclosure..

 

[TwentyOneChickens]

Call Ducks are fantastic little birds. Clipping wings is possibly needed. They don't need much feed daily and fit into smaller enclosure..

The only ducks I have that clean my garden, and don't destroy every living thing in sight are call ducks.

I read all the hype about folks using them for slug, and weed control, but my standard ducks (mixed flock of Cayuga, Welsh Harlequins, Magpie, runner) destroyed all sprouts and any green thing they could find. They are non discerning. Shoot, they even ate my onion and garlic sprouts, which is something I was assured that they would not touch. They are amazing in the orchard, though. They do a great job of pest management out there.

My call ducks, on the other hand, are excellent bug/slug patrol, and leave my plants alone. I do always plant extra lettuce for the birds, so I don't mind if they munch on that.
I will say that I allow all my birds in the garden during winter. They do a fantastic job of maintaining the beds, and aerating the soil. I kick them out as soon as it's time to plant.

I am biased but what you are seeking is Runner Ducks . They were bred for cleaning a crop field and being run to the next. There is no meat on their bones so they are not meat birds.

Thank you everybody. I will look into these breeds!

 

[learycow]

I would highly recommend muscovy.
They are not huge egg layers as they LOVE to go broody!
They are great meat ducks but don't need to be raised for that purpose. They are friendly (if you buy from a breeder who breeds for temperaments!) and super social. They are not generally big swimmers so much easier to get in at night so you don't have to worry about predators.

Feel free to message me with questions. I also have some youngsters who are ready for new homes. They are trained to go in a coop at night. But free range during the day. They come for treats and love to just hand out!