DUCKS

[Backcountrychickens]

I have no idea how much expirience anyone on here has on ducks, but I considering getting my first batch of ducklings, and I have one major question:
I have a small spring-fed pond behind my chicken coop that I thought would be perfect for the ducks, the only issue is that there are frogs and voles living in/nearby and lots of alge and other water creatures. I live in the northeast, and i was wondering if there were any illnesses that I should be concerned about the ducks getting?
Thanks!

 

[Canadian Wind]

I'd be more worried about aquatic predators, like snapping turtles. Also, make sure that the pond is fenced in if at all possible. You'll need a coop for them to go to at night, and a way of getting them off the pond to put them to bed.

 

[Backcountrychickens]

yes that was the plan. the pomd is way too small for snappers. thank you so much!

 

[Jenbirdee]

sounds like fun for the ducks! please post duckling pics after you get them!

 

[Canadian Wind]

By the way, I requested the thread be moved to the Ducks forum, as I figured more people would be able to see it here.

 

[cheezenkwackers]

If there are snails and other waterfowl or muskrats, I suppose there could be the larval flukes that cause swimmer’s itch in people? Ducks are their intended host. I only visit the northeast though, and they are not found where I live. So, maybe someone from that area can tell us if that would be an issue.

 

[Backcountrychickens]

the pond is about 4ft by 5 ft so the only inhabitants are frogs

 

[Canadian Wind]

the pond is about 4ft by 5 ft so the only inhabitants are frogs

You'd be surprised what lives in a pond! Take a bit of water and look under a magnifying glass or microscope, if you dare.

 

[Canadian Wind]

Oh, and ducks love to eat frogs.