Duckling Feed

[chickney]

What if it is really cold and mixed with other feed? I add corn to my chicken feed only in the winter to give them extra fuel.

 

[HollyDuckFarmer]

I read on the Metzer's Site that Medicated feed was acceptable. Metzers site also has a great calculator that you can use to find the poportions to mix your own feed to the proper protein level. Personally I have used Dumor from TSC, as well as Purina, as well as Armada Grain. I like all. Purina seems to be the most costly. I have been using Armada's feed for nearly a year and I am very happy with it. For ducklings, aim for 24% and 16% for adults, whatever brand you choose. I do add some corn when it is really cold but the bulk of the diet is 16% feed.

 

[jdywntr]

What if it is really cold and mixed with other feed? I add corn to my chicken feed only in the winter to give them extra fuel.

It depends on the age of the ducklings. They cannot eat whole corn as young ducklings. They, like chickens may tend to eat corn over the actual balanced feed. It should be used only as an addition to feed or as a treat.

I read on the Metzer's Site that Medicated feed was acceptable. Metzers site also has a great calculator that you can use to find the poportions to mix your own feed to the proper protein level. Personally I have used Dumor from TSC, as well as Purina, as well as Armada Grain. I like all. Purina seems to be the most costly. I have been using Armada's feed for nearly a year and I am very happy with it. For ducklings, aim for 24% and 16% for adults, whatever brand you choose. I do add some corn when it is really cold but the bulk of the diet is 16% feed.

Most medicated feed is fine, it depends on the medication in the feed. I don't like saying medicated feed is okay because BYC is a worldwide community and what is available here may not be the same as elsewhere.

I agree that Metzer's feed calculator is great.

24% is higher than the recommended protein level for ducklings unless you are pushing growth for short lived meat birds. 18%-21% is what is recommended by both Metzer and Dave Holderread. Most of us only have 20% protein starter available so that is more of the norm.

Keep in mind that anything that you add to their diet will lower or heighten their protein intake.

 

[HollyDuckFarmer]

Thanks for setting the record straight JW, great point about Regional/National differences!