I've never had ducks. Is it a bad idea to try to hatch some right off?

[jdywntr]

You can try Metzer Farms, they sell both eggs and hatchlings. They are in CA, and while they may not have a great selection at this time of year, they are great. I had runners shipped to me when I lived in FL and they all made it just fine.
Also Holderread's is over in that part of the country, WA or OR I think. They have very high quality ducklings but you'd have to wait til spring, and you need to order early.

I suggest research and having everything prepared before they arrive, whether it be ducklings or hatching eggs. The better thing with ducklings is that (depending on where you get them) you can get them sexed so you don't need to worry about too many males.

 

[ChristineR]

Everyone's already given you a lot of great advice. I would also recommend Metzer Farms for pet quality ducklings. Holderread's is in Corvalis, OR I think, but their quantities and availablity are more limited.

If you hatched eggs, what would you do with the extra males that you may get?

 

[Bronwyn]

I live in Santa Ynez, near Santa Barbara. I will go in and ask at the local feed store. Thank you all for the advice! I am just so excited already!

 

[SJUDD]

I live in Santa Ynez, near Santa Barbara. I will go in and ask at the local feed store. Thank you all for the advice! I am just so excited already!

I live near San Luis Obispo, Ca. My local feed store got me 2 day old ducklings. I have 3 mallards and a Cayuga. I kept them indoors for almost 2 months then moved them outside and they all bonded with me and are great birds! Wish you the best!!

 

[jdywntr]

Just remember that most feed stores that carry ducklings sell them straight run so you won't know what you are getting.

 

[ChristineR]

I live in Santa Ynez, near Santa Barbara. I will go in and ask at the local feed store. Thank you all for the advice! I am just so excited already!

You know you can order directly from Metzer's or Holderread's, right?