Do ducks need grit?

[fletchersmom]

Thank you so much!!!

 

[duckiebubbles]

I was actually wondering this as well. How much grit for ducklings? Right now they go out twice a day but they usually play in the pool more than anything. Should it be mixed in with their crumble or provide a dish to the side with just grit in it?

 

[dotknott]

Free choice on the side.

 

[quizzlecakes]

I know this thread is a little old but hopefully I can get an answer

I'm feeding my ducklings game bird show bird feed by recommendation of girl at feed store, it does not contain grit. Can I just get some dirt or sand and throw it in with the food or do I have to buy the bag of grit? They won't be able to run around outside for a week or so... Thanks!!

 

[Miss Lydia]

I know this thread is a little old but hopefully I can get an answer

I'm feeding my ducklings game bird show bird feed by recommendation of girl at feed store, it does not contain grit. Can I just get some dirt or sand and throw it in with the food or do I have to buy the bag of grit? They won't be able to run around outside for a week or so... Thanks!!

Instead of putting it in their feed which may cause them to eat too much sand I'd offer it on the bottom of their brooder or in a small dish close to their feed. It's dirt with tiny amounts of stones that will work or play sand not builders sand . They use this 'Grit" to grind up their feed since they don't have teeth to do it with.

quizzlecakes Welcome to BYC!

 

[quizzlecakes]

Thank u!!!!

So they will just naturally know to pick up the sand/dirt correct? And is regular diet ok or get the bag of grit??

 

[Miss Lydia]

Thank u!!!!

So they will just naturally know to pick up the sand/dirt correct? And is regular diet ok or get the bag of grit??

Either or. I have always used grit when in the brooder it's inexpensive but at about 2 weeks I also cut a piece of sod along with grass, weeds and bring it in for them to play in they love it. It's instinct with them to do this eat grit sand or what ever to help them grind their feed. I keep grit out all year long even though mine are on the ground early but in winter when the ground is covered with ice and snow they really use it.

 

[carltoncalley]

Thanks everyone who already replied, this was very informative. I have a few questions though. I have a one day old pekin that is only indoors for the time being. Being fed some small crumbly food from a bag. (Gf bought it idk what it is) do I need some small grit on the side/mixed in?

Thanks!