how hard is it REALLY to take care of ducks???

[aa3655]

Quote:
Sorry, but I disagree with this position. I work and keep poultry,and have done so for the past 10 years. Having a full time job (or going to school) does NOT preclude keeping birds.
Cuqui18, I applaud your interest in having ducks, and it's good to see that you're putting some serious thought into the practical aspects of their care. Is there anyone at home with you who might agree to putting the ducks away or taking over a feed in case you got home too late to do it yourself?

 

[Kaitie09]

I wanted to add that I am a full time college student. I have to leave my house at 8am, and I get home at 6pm. It really only takes 2 minutes to go out there and feed them, and then another 5 min at night to lock them up. If you get a big enough waterer, you can leave it outside and not worry about that for 2-3 days. You can also go to walmart or tractor supply, and buy the automatic dog waterer that hooks up to your hose. They are only about $16 here. If you are going away for school, then it really does not make sense to get an animal that will require someone else to take care of.

 

[Gen9]

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OMG I am so glad I was reading through this thread because I have been guilty of doing that!

I will look up better alternatives and pass it on to my kids as well - THANK YOU

 

[thekid]

Im quitting sports and stuff this will be my last baseball season even though I am like our schools only second baseman

 

[Wifezilla]

Gen9, peas are a good alternative. Just thaw out a bag of frozen peas and feed those to the ducks. Another option is grain-free cat food. Also watermelon, shredded zucchini, lettuce, or dandelion leaves.

 

[Cuqui18]

Quote:
Sorry, but I disagree with this position. I work and keep poultry,and have done so for the past 10 years. Having a full time job (or going to school) does NOT preclude keeping birds.
Cuqui18, I applaud your interest in having ducks, and it's good to see that you're putting some serious thought into the practical aspects of their care. Is there anyone at home with you who might agree to putting the ducks away or taking over a feed in case you got home too late to do it yourself?

My parents have supported me in this idea of having a duck or two, and my father would certainly be willing to feed them quickly or shut them in at night if i had a late soccer game, or an important academic event to attend. At first my mom was absolutely furious with the idea of 'turning my yard into a farm' but just earlier today she was telling me how much she supported me with this and she said 'just go for it' and i said no, because im not going to 'just go for it' im waiting until i have everything planned out and to be honest right now im about 30% sure im on board with this myself, ive got a lot of percentage to make up for before i send in an order to a hatchery!!! I've definitely got a ways to go, but im taking my time.

 

[Emma909]

there not that hard to clean or take care of.

 

[missred871]

well kudos to you for knowing that you will have to be sure of yourself and the responsibility before getting them! I hope you decide to add ducks to your family I am sure you will do great with them.


Gen9- I am glad to let other people know about it that didnt before, there are plenty of healthy alternatives that are super easy and Wifezilla listed several. Dont feel guilty I had no idea myself until I started raising ducks.

 

[klf73]

if you arent' going to be around all the time you should get two so it doesn't get lonely....so "a duck or two" should really be two....good luck

 

[Cuqui18]

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definitely what im hoping for!