How Big and How Many Ducks?

[mrbstephens]

I'm buying a used doghouse that measures 33 inches high, 44 inches long and 32 inches deep. It's wood and the top opens up. I figured I'd put a lock on the top and make a door that also locks. Would build a predator proof run and supply a pool. How many ducks can I fit in there comfortably? I'd like runners.

 

[Oregon Blues]

2 as long as they just use it at night and have a nice run to stretch out and move around.

 

[veronicasmom]

Be sure to figure out something for ventilation. That might get pretty hot in the summer with the birds in it when it is all locked up.
Runners are great birds, I love mine.

 

[mrbstephens]

Just two? I was hoping three that way if one dies for whatever reason there wouldn't be a loner.

I'll make ventilation holes and yes, just for the night. I have lots of space here. How big should the run be?

 

[mrbstephens]

Should I get a smaller duck? I would like pretty ducks with a friendly disposition and good layers.

 

[veronicasmom]

My runners are pretty small, they are tall and slender. To me they are small, compared to my Pekin and my Muscovies. I am sure if you put three in there and it is just for the night they would be fine.
And my runner is a good layer too. I think she's pretty, she's fawn and white, but they come in tons of really cool colors. Just make sure you get three girls or two girls and a boy. 2 boys and a girl will not work out well, especially in a small space. They really could hurt her.

 

[mrbstephens]

Great! I have someone local with Indian Runners. How big should the run be?

 

[Tahai]

The rule of thumb is 3sq. feet per duck in a night pen, and 25 sq. ft. per duck in pasture/run. If you live in an area where you anticipate keeping them in their night pen for extended periods, in deep winter when the days are short or in harsh winters, for example, you will want to give them 6-8 sq. ft. per duck.

 

[mrbstephens]

So perfect actually! That house will give them 3 square feet each for the night and I have plenty of room to provide them with that space for the run. We don't get terrible winters here typically and we're in the woods, so it' well protected from winds.

 

[mrbstephens]

How tall should the doorway be? I think I have to make the doorway bigger.