Feeding ducklings from a few days to 5-6 weeks?

[Firegal1056]

So I have spent the Summer building a duck house and coop. I am getting ready to get the ducklings. I will have them in a brooder in the house or garage until feathered. What do I feed when they are only a few days old to they are fully feathered? There are so many suggestions I am a little overwhelmed. I know it can't be the medicated chick feed. I am planning on cayugas, khaki's and maybe a runner or two. Where is the best to order for just 1-2 of each? Thank you all, new to this and am looking for answers. So excited to have my pets, eggs, and hopefully my bulldog will leave them alone!

 

[Debs Flock]

Hi there!

I highly recommend that you read as much as possible here:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/ducks-sticky-topics-index.256233/

The first post in the above thread has many very helpful links listed.

Many members feed Purina Flockraiser from newly hatched throughout adulthood.

I think at least part of the reason you'll get such a variety of answers is because some feed "by the book", which usually refers to one of the most popular raising ducks book that I'm aware of: Storeys Guide to Raising Ducks. This book recommends a high level of protein to start and then reducing the protein content periodically. I can't remember how often the books says to reduce. Others find what works best for them. To me, buying one food (the Purina mentioned above) to use from the start and not having to change is the easiest option.

I believe I've read another benefit to the Purina is that it has enough Niacin in it so you won't have to supplement. Any other feed (as you said it must be non-medicated) will require you to add a source of Niacin either to their food or water.

Best of luck with your new additions!

 

[junebuggena]

Flock Raiser. It's all any of my poultry are fed, for as long as they live. And it does contain enough niacin for healthy development.

 

[gal5150]

I can't access Flock Raiser where I am so I used and still use Dumor and my girls do great on it. I supplemented with brewer's yeast sprinkled on top.

I got my hatchlings from Metzer's and was really happy with the fact that I could get them sexed and in small quantities. I have Cayuga and WH and they're lovely birds...mine are pets and the eggs are a side bonus. Congrats on finishing your coop! You're about to start the most fun journey!