Fighting Drakes

[deserthotwings]

This is my first year with flying mallards. I have 16 birds, 7 hens and 9 drakes that are now 5 months old. They are in an enclosed pen 20'X20' with a small pool. All has gone well until the past couple of days. I now have 2 of the drakes that don't get along and are fighting. Is this normal during non mating season and will they over come this or fight to death. I'm thinking about maybe letting one of them out of the pen and see if he stays close to the others, or will he just fly away. Sure could use a little advise. Thanks

 

[Kevin565]

It's because you have way to many drakes. There should be at least 2 hens per drake.

 

[DuckLady]

Right now they are establishing dominance.
Come Spring, they will be all mating your ducks. Your ducks will likely be overmated and could be injured.
They will also mate with and fight with each other.

My best advice is to try to find homes for 6 to 8 of your drakes or all of your ducks if you are not wanting eggs.

 

[fowl farm]

Before my birds were old enough to free-range, my rooster and 2 of my ducks (Mallards, 1 drake, 1 hen) would fight through the common fence line. The hens bill got banged up pretty bad, but since they started free-ranging, I've only had trouble once, and that was at the very first. I guess my point is, free-range should help some, but Kevin565 is right- too many drakes.

 

[jdywntr]

Yup, WAY to many drakes. Best to decide what to do with the excess before it gets too bad for the drakes and the ducks. Rehome, seperate pen or freezer camp are your options. Sorry.