I am interested in ducks ... Any good advice?

[clacasse88]

I have been enjoying chickens, but I just think ducks are so cool.

What is an easy breed to start with as I have little kids? Is there a certain amount that's better?

I have a old man made pond on my property & think they would enjoy it. However, I'm a little nervous about having them subjected to the wild ducks. Should I keep them separated? Any thoughts?

Can I house them with my chickens to a certain point or is that not recommended?

Any feed back would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

[Badbaby05]

I would like to hear also. Ducks have always interested me but know nothing about caring for them in relation to chickens.

 

[dumb_cluck]

RESEARCH. Read this forum, search the internet, borrow a book.....

First see which duck speices you would like, then read all you can about their habits, etc. Not recommended to keep "with" chickens (in same pen).

Ducks are cool.... and messy.

So be prepared for some cleaning.

 

[chickensioux]

First and foremost, duck are extremely messy. If you are not prepared or want to tolerate their mess, don't get them. There is a post on here now regarding the dumping of unwanted ducks on local public ponds. This is due to (I believe) people not researching owning ducks. They are messy with their water and their poops are messy. Please know what you are getting into before getting ducks. They can be housed with chickens but they will muck up the chicken's water all day, every day.
It is best to house them seperately, but it can be done.

On the other side, ducks are cute and comical. I adore watching mine. Some of mine are very friendly. There are many sizes, varieties and colors. I started with 1 (2 years ago) and now I have many. I personally love them.

You can have as few as 2 (they like a friend) or as many as you can handle. Just please research.

 

[clacasse88]

Thank you for your valuable input

I really appreciate it. This is the first part of my research....