Duckling feed

[Crazychickengirl2]

I have ducks hatching soon and dont know exactly what to feed them.What happens if the percentage of protein is too low? What should I feed them?

 

[nuthatched]

I think more problems start with to much protein I think poultry starter is what most people recommend.

 

[ChookieG]

I think the best is to get a commercial feed suitable for ducklings - ie. containing Niacin which is essential for young ducklings. A commercial feed also ensures they're getting all the essential nutrients needed for a healthy start in life - this is very crucial.

 

[New duck mommy 2021]

Depending where you live
In Canada I struggle to get duck feed here
I use chick starter non medicated
I add 1tbs of nutritional yeast ( can use brewers yeast ) to 1 cup of feed till 10 weeks
Then sprinkle on feed a little everyday
I switch from starter to grower at 2-3 weeks tops
Mixing the 2 starting with 3/4-1/4 then 1/2-1/25) then 3/4-1/4 do this for 2-3 days per stage
I am not able to get chick grit here unless I pay a fortune so I don’t give treats till about 3 weeks when they can handle regular grit
When feeding anything other then regular feed it’s important to have a separate bowl of grit to help them digest feed
Good luck on your babies
My ducks keep me smiling everyday

 

[cheezenkwackers]

Tractor Supply sells Purina duck chow. It is said to be for duckling to adults according to the package. I currently have 2 and a half week old ducklings who have been on it since hatching. I also raised a batch on it last year. Both did great! My adult ducks have been on it for almost two years and do well. For ducklings, I do add a tablespoon or so of nutritional yeast to a couple cups of feed just to be 100% there is enough niacin. I also grind the pellet for the first week and wet it water to a mushy state the first couple of days. Hope this helps.