Did I make a mistake ?

[MamaHenJenn]

We have hens and all is well, we know how to care for them. Last night at the fair we got two ducklings. Based on the info the "duck expert" gave us, it seemed like a good idea, but now the more I think about it the more I wonder if I should try to take them back?!

Currently, they are doing great in the same chick setup we had for the chicks...not a problem. My concern is for keeping them in our small backyard as adults. I was told they're quite, is this true? I was told they would get along with our hens, but now read about drakes mating/killing hens and the ducklings aren't sexed. I have a kiddie pool, but would wonder is they could mostly be fine with my large tub shaped fountain, about half the size of the kiddie pool? It's fine for that corner of yard to be wet and messy. My main concerns are if I can provide what they need?! Can they go in the coop at night with the hens when they get older? From reading, it sounds like the hens will roost on the second story, like they do now, and the ducks will stay on the bottom run portion? I just don't know if all of it will workout and wouldn't know what to do with them to re-home them if I can't give them what they properly need.

I feel like I was possibly led astray be the duck girl at the fair? She made it seem simple and as if I have hens so ducks are no problem...

 

[CityFarmer202]

With the babies, be sure you don't feed them medicated chick starter, it will usually end up with some dead ducks. It depends on the breed. Overall, they are fairly quiet, but some breeds are loud, like pekins. Boys are virtually silent, unlike roos. For the most part, they stay with their own kind, but i've never had just 2 with the chickens. Most likely, it would be the chickens killing the ducks, because they have been known to peck ducks to death, though, its not overly common. They should be ok with the fountain, though they would love a larger area to swim, but you also need to make sure the chickens won't drown. Yes, they can go in the coop, but make sure it is big enough for them to have a sleeping area without getting pooped on by other chickens. Yes, they will stay on the ground. When we moved a year ago, i gave my ducks to some people who had a big pond and lots of other ducks, so if you find someone like that, you could consider it. Ducks are my favorite poultry and i will be getting more next spring. Good Luck!!!!

 

[ducksinarow]

A small backyard is fine. I only have 1/4 acre with 11 ducks. Grass is good except in pen and around pool. I only had a fountain for them to swim in for 2 years. They will sleep on ground in pen. Good luck

 

[crazyfeathers]

My ducks are in with my chickens and chicks they are wonderful. Mine 'are Peking and they are not loud, no louder than the rooster. They have about 1/4 of an acre and are happy, happy, happy!!