i live in northern NH, do my ducks need actual heat?

[veronicasmom]

Do you have all girls? If you have a drake, I'd skip the layer pellets, too much calcium, and use a multi purpose feed with a bowl of oyster shells for additional calcium for the girls. For example you could use Blue Seal Grow and Show pellets with a separate bowl of crushed oyster shells.Or whatever other multi purpose feed you can get. That is what I do and it's been working well for me for years. If you have all girls, the layer pellets will be fine, but during the heaviest laying season, you can add the shells also for extra help.
Just an fyi, and this is only my opinion, but I might not always go on the info you get from the Tractor Supply people. I do shop there occasionally, but find the staff is not always very informed on the fine art of animal care! I personally like the smaller feed and grain stores if you have one near you. Or at the very least, if TS is most convenient, do a bit of research on whatever they tell you before following it. Maybe the one in your area is better than the one I go to and the staff does know what they are talking about, idk, but I have heard some scary stuff in that store!

 

[MommaHenn]

Okay, that is basically what I do, as I have both males & females, ducks and chickens. I wasn't sure if I should be doing something different. I am using a mixed flock, multi-purpose 18% protein feed and supplementing the oyster shells in a "take as needed" format. Your statement was very helpful, thanks!

 

[veronicasmom]

Quackhouse3, you asked about peas. Many of us use them as a special treat for our ducks. They are not all that nutritional, but my ducks LOVE LOVE LOVE them. They like to "bob for peas" in their water bowls, chase them as they roll and just generally gobble them up. They can be a great training tool. I give them in the evening just as I am locking everyone in for the night. All ten ducks will head toward the shed as the afternoon wanes and will all be waiting to be herded in and have the peas thrown around.
It took a few of mine a little time to get used to them, but now everyone adores them.