Ducks are Two Weeks Old, do I move to lower protein?

[Katicorn]

I have almost half a bag of Manna Pro Starter left and a new bag of the Purina Pellets. I’ve read varying opinions but: Do I go ahead and switch, or finish the bag, or blend the feed so I don’t waste the starter? OR do I wait until they are a few weeks older to reduce protein?

Also, when do I start Laying Feed. And what kind?

Thanks for any responses.

 

[HawaiiCoyote]

I would finish off the manna pro, if you want to lower the protein a bit then mix in some whole oats with the feed. The more oats you add, the more the protein goes down so I would just sprinkle in a handful when they eat. (That's what I do.)
You can start giving them layer feed around 18 weeks of age. Males should NEVER get fed layer feed of any kind, it is ONLY for the females. The drakes can not process the calcium, and their kidneys will overload if given layer feed because they can't deposit that calcium.
Drakes fed layer feed supposedly live short lives, although I have read threads on here where people feed layer to all the ducks, and they are fine so I feel like it's whatever you feel comfortable with.

 

[Katicorn]

Thank you for the info. I ordered all females, but they sent a bonus duck. One of the blue Swedish is the same size as the Pekins, with slightly different markings than the other two Blue Swedish. Yellow on the top of it’s head and a stripe down the back of it’s neck. Im hoping a drake didnt sneak in with the girlies.

 

[HawaiiCoyote]

Thank you for the info. I ordered all females, but they sent a bonus duck. One of the blue Swedish is the same size as the Pekins, with slightly different markings that the other two Blue Swedish. Yellow on the top of it’s head and a stripe down the back of it’s neck. I hoping a drake didnt sneak in with the girlies.

It's possible, but let's hope not! It sounds like you have a nice variety, good luck with your duck-keeping journey! Oh, and Welcome To BYC!!!!

Donut the duckling wishes you the best!