Duck Egg Intolerance - Would fertilized affect?

[lilflockochicks]

So we've raised up ducks and they started laying about a month ago. Both my husband and I were getting progressively worse stomach aches - sour and crampy after breakfast and through trials of eating the duck eggs only, our chicken eggs only, and store-bought chicken eggs only on different mornings, we've determined it's the duck eggs that are making us miserable. Our ducks eat the same food and forage in the same yard (even sleep in the same coop) as the chickens. So we're pretty sure it is not something in their diet.

My question is, does anyone know if it could be because the eggs are fertilized? We have males. I don't want to do another trial of eating the eggs and then spending the rest of the morning doubled over in pain. But I'd hate to rehome all of the ducks if it's just a problem of fertilization.

 

[Kevin565]

No I doubt it's fertilization. What you are describing sounds like a normal duck egg intolerance. I actually know of a few people who can not tolerate them either.

 

[cubbysan]

My husband eats fertized duck eggs every morning, no problems. If anything, since he started eating our duck eggs, he has lost some weight.

 

[lilflockochicks]

Thank you. I really doubt it too. I think it's odd that both husband & I would be intolerant, so I'm trying to think of anything else it could be!

 

[Kevin565]

Have you considered trying a change in their diet?

 

[lilflockochicks]

Yes. But the chickens have the same food and we can eat their eggs and feel fine. So wouldn't that eliminate that as a factor? I am willing to try it if it could be that!

 

[Kevin565]

Not necessarily. While it's defiantly a long shot it's something I would try before completely giving up on ducks.

 

[lilflockochicks]

Not necessarily. While it's defiantly a long shot it's something I would try before completely giving up on ducks.

It's probably worth a try! They are awesome layers and I like having them around.

 

[Tivona]

Are they allowed to roam at all? Could they be eating something else in the yard that the chickens don't care for that might be causing the problem?

Just guessing but just because they all have the same pellets and access to plants doesn't necessarily mean that the ducks won't eat something that the chickens won't...anyway I hope you figure whatever it is out.

 

[lilflockochicks]

Are they allowed to roam at all? Could they be eating something else in the yard that the chickens don't care for that might be causing the problem?

Just guessing but just because they all have the same pellets and access to plants doesn't necessarily mean that the ducks won't eat something that the chickens won't...anyway I hope you figure whatever it is out.

That's a good point. The yard is about 7,000 sq ft, so there are lots of things growing there. Hmmmm, I may have to do some research!