How old should a duck be to show?

[WIchickens]

So....my daughter wants to try her hand at taking a duck to the fair this year. We have taken chickens and turkeys in the past, but she wants to try something new. She would like to start with a smaller, calmer bird - perhaps a bantam such as a call or a welsh harlequin (open to any other suggestions!). The fair book just says "young" or "old" for categories and doesn't specify an age. Just wondering how old the duck should be at fair time? Our fair is at the end of July.

Any sources of show ducks you could share would also be helpful! Thank you!!

 

[Ameraucanas]

Probably whenever, although I would wait at least three months before they hatch. Here's a link. https://poultrykeeper.com/articles-on-showing-poultry/tips-and-tricks-for-exhibiting/

 

[WIchickens]

Thank you!!

 

[buff goose guy]

Calls are some of the most high strung ducks, if you want a duck breed that is calm calls are not the best choice. Muscovies and Cayugas are said to be very calm birds.

 

[learycow]

You typically want to wait until they are at least full grown and mostly mature. Otherwise placing may not be as high if they aren't filled out. So 6+ months for most breeds.

Call ducks are an excellent choice but keep in mind they are a very competitive category of ducks. Be sure she gets top quality birds or eggs from a breeder for a higher chance at hatching good quality ones. That way it's not a huge disappointment for her.

Welsh are a good choice too but tend to be more timid by nature.

 

[WIchickens]

Thanks for all the advice! I was considering the Welsh too, but haven't found a source for them. I read that they were very calm. My uncle has a Muscovy at his place that chases everyone who comes over so I got the impression they were a bit aggressive lol. Maybe not?

I would like her to place well and she doesn't get discouraged. Looks like I better get hatching to reach the 6 month mark before fair!

 

[DancingWthDucks]

I showed my two home breed Welsh Harlequins this autumn at the National Poultry Show, aged 25 weeks and they did fine (in fact I got a 1st and a 2nd in their classes!). Welsh Harlequins are great show birds, and regually get placed in the overall Show Champion, and are easy to prepare before hand.....

I've heard that Hollerreads sells and mails very good quality WH ducklings, but they do have a minimum order number (so you could maybe order with a friend/ local who also wants some ducks?). Remember to raise 3 ducklings for every 1 show quality ducks- although his ducks are really good quality, it is impossible for every duckling to be born SQ.

Good Luck!