Ever raise divers?

[THunter]

I was reading an article in some magazine and it mentioned someone raising diver ducks. The one that really got my attention was hooded mergansers. Any of you ever raise them or know anyone that has? What would you feed one of them little suckers when it's a duckling?

 

[farmertank]

I could be wrong, but I believe that these are a protected bird and that you have to have a permit to raise them. I bet if you can raise them, that they are expensive

Maybe someone else can tell you more.

Julie

 

[cawooduck]

Divers are very specialized, they need deeper water (3 feet+) to practice their habits and they need a special diet as well, like Mazuri Diver Food, which contains specialized protiens more related to their natural diet.

And as Farmertank said, they are some of the most expensive wildfowl you will buy. Buffleheads and Golden eyes go for about $300+ a pair. I believe you can get mergansers for about $150-200 a pair and smews are around $500 a pair, then there are the kings of divers, eiders, which go for around $2500 a pair!! Canvasbacks go for around $200 a pair.

As far as what food to raise them on, Mazuri Waterfowl Starter or even gamebird starter would be good.

If you have never raised wildfowl i would start with woodies and teal, it will give you a feel. I wouldnt raise divers, buts thats only because i dont have the facilities to do it properly, but someday when i have a large natural pond, i am sure i will have something more specialized than what i currently raise!!

PS- Like farmertank said, you better check into your states permit regulations, most states require a permit to keep certain breeds of wildfowl, and if you intend on selling eggs or birds you will need a federal permit as well!!

 

[THunter]

Was just curious. I have NO interest in raising those crazy things. Though at $300 a pair I might could be tempted. I had woodies a long time ago. Hated those things.

 

[farmertank]

I knew they would be expensive, but I'm still sticker shocked lol. I supose the price keeps people that aren't going to really take care of them from buying. I personally like to see them in a wild setting instead of cages, they are so beautiful.


Cawooduck, do you raise woodies and teals? I would love to see pic if you do. If I ever get enough property for a pond I would like to raise these,but, for know I'll just be happy with my domestic ducks.

Thanks for the info. you are very informative.


Julie