Duck Newb...Question on Flock Dynamic

[hokankai]

So I'm considering getting 2-3 ducklings this spring...but I'm not sure how the flock dynamics would be with the genders. What if I end up with all drakes? all hens? two drakes and a hen? two hens and a drake? Do they do better in pairs or trios? I'm looking into Anconas in particular.

What is the "ideal" gender setup for ducks? haha

 

[JoyAnna]

Most BYCers suggest one drake to at least 2 or 3 ducks, or all one gender. My two girls are quite happy with each other, and even so, one still mounts the other. I suppose I should add a drake for her.

 

[hokankai]

Ok so how many should I start out with do you think? I want to end up with at least 3.

 

[JoyAnna]

Last April I bought four straight run for ther purpose of having eggs.

Yep! ended up with four drakes.

Best to buy sexed ducklings if you only want a few.

 

[Onewiththeducks]

You could get 3, but if you want a specific gender, then consider having them sexed. I got 6 straight run ducks last April, and I was lucky to get only 2 drakes.

 

[Amiga]

This is where Amiga jumps in and suggests you consider rescues - you'll know if you have drakes or ducks.

 

[hokankai]

Haha I don't think there are rescue Anconas around here, which is what I want. I'm thinking about hatching some and trying my hand at vent sexing them! I think I'd like to end up with either a male female pair or a trio of hens.

 

[Amiga]

Well, keep an eye out, anyway. There are not often rescue runners around me, but they do pop up from time to time.

 

[hokankai]

I actually don't trust adult birds from other peoples' properties for biosecurity reasons. I learned my lesson the hard way :\

 

[Amiga]

Yes, it can be dicey sometimes. Do what is right for you.