Is it ok to have just a pair?

[shelleyb1969]

I'm getting Welsh Harlequin ducklings, and I really only want a pair to keep long term. Is it a bad idea to only have a pair, or should I keep 2 girls for the drake?

 

[momma's chickens]

It seems to me two girls would be better. It helps with overmating.

 

[Wynette]

I think it's a super bad idea to add ducks to all your chooks.

Of course it's not okay - you truly do need about 25.

 

[duckyfromoz]

It can be kinder to the ducks to have more then one per drake, But I have kept pairs happily in the past.

 

[Sweetfolly]

I think it depends on the drake and the duck. I have a pair of Indian Runners that live in their own little "love nest" separated from the rest of the ducks, and they get along great. But, the duck is a super-pushy dominant little thing that can kick the drake around a little. When I had the same drake in with all my Campbell ducks, he was ripping their heads bald, even though he had 6 girls to mate - but, in a pen with just that one tough Runner, he's perfectly well behaved. Go figure.

 

[gryeyes]

I just have a pair - I had hoped for two girls, but I guess I can still say I'm lucky that my "straight run" ducklings turned out to be a drake and a hen. (By the way, what DO we call girl ducks?)

They're in the same run with my chickens, so I'm hoping Louie stays only interested in Thelma. If I *must,* I suppose I *could* get another couple ducklings and hope for all girls...... Don't want to do that; I'm already over my legal limit of poultry!

 

[destinduck]

most times pairs work fine just like ANNARIE says depends on the drake and hen Hi gryeyes I call mine suzie

my loudest duck of all

 

[shelleyb1969]

Thanks for all the replies!

Maybe I'll keep just a pair to start with and see how it goes. They will be allowed free range during the day and locked up in their own private chateau at night.

With so much freedom and so many things to keep them entertained, hopefully the drake won't be too demanding.

 

[Wynette]

Well, MY drake certainly is demanding!