How long before ducks start laying?

[ctaynton]

Just curious how old ducks have to be before they start laying eggs?

 

[The Chicken People]

I think its about the same as chickens 20 to 22 weeks! I just got three baby ducks and cant wait to get eggs!

 

[maralynn28]

I think Storey's guide says 18 wks AND they need to have 16+ hrs daylight. They could lay eggs earlier but it is dangerous for them.

I probably won't get any eggs this year, as my ducks get old enough to produce the days will be getting shorter.

Short days here in the NW. I may add a light to their house to extend daylight hours and try to get a few eggs but don't know if it will be worth it this year...

 

[Wokawidget]

Hi,

Here's the stats of my egg laying monster:

Make: English White Campbell
D.O.B.: 15th May 2009
1st Egg: 2nd Sept 2009
Age when 1st laid: 17 weeks
Eggs laid: 1 per day, everyday without fail before 7am and still going strong. Snow, malting, dark winter has not affected her at all. She's on for 360+ / yr at this rate.
Conditions: Treated as a pet, loves being stroked and sitting on your lap. Sleeps with 3 chickens in a coup. Freeranges in 200m^2 garden all day then in on an evening for strokes.


Hope that helps.

Woka