How long after the duckling hatch

[Sylviaanne]

Will the mama start to lay eggs again? Thanks.

 

[Sylviaanne]

Anyone know?

 

[smonkeySK]

Depends on the duck and the breed.
Chickens are easier to work with as they'll generally start laying 5 to 6 weeks later in my experience.
Ducks are harder to read - depends how prolific a layer the bird/breed is and how quickly they decide the ducklings are on their own. Many ducks stop caring for their young quicker than chickens so there is a chance they will lay not long after hatching out their brood.

This is all dependant on the birds condition too, if they are under weight and slightly malnourished from sitting then it will take longer.

 

[Sylviaanne]

She's an Indian Runner and she does look thinner than before she was sitting. So, it could be about 4-6 weeks after the babies hatch before she starts laying again?

 

[smonkeySK]

I've never kept runners but I wouldn't expect eggs sooner than the 4 week mark.
I'm lucky that after getting the birds I went off eating so many eggs so I always have surplus!

 

[Sylviaanne]

I love eggs but I'm not a big egg eater, my husband is but we were getting too many to keep up with. LOL Now, I guess the heat is getting to them as they are not laying very well.

Next year we will have surplus and that is what I am looking forward to. I want to try selling eggs and if that doesn't work out, I guess the eggs will be going to the food bank. LOL

 

[smonkeySK]

Friends family and neighbours (they have to put up with my call ducks cackling!) get most of ours; I love eggs but only eat them in fits and starts..
My missus used to eat loads of eggs but now she feels like she's eating their babies she just can't do it!

Just as well we love them as pets really