Mallards

[Jonaboo 16]

I was thinking about getting some mallards. Are they good ducks to have?

 

[Auntie]

I had mallards a few years ago here in Colorado. But when the wild flocks started flying overhead, the mallards soon disappeared. I would think once wild, always wild. But they were gentle birds while they were here.

 

[Jonaboo 16]

If I clip one of their wings could they fly ?

 

[ejctm]

They could still fly a bit, but not far. Are you thinking of getting wild ones or domestic ones?

 

[Jonaboo 16]

domestic

 

[ejctm]

Have you thought about Rouens?
They look like mallards but are much heavier and cannot fly when mature.
Might be easier than ensuring wings are always clipped.

 

[QuackedUp]

Mallard question: When (at what age) will the hens lay eggs? Do they lay infertile eggs? If so, how often?

 

[Kevin565]

Mallards are awesome. As long as you keep a wing clipped they're pretty good at sticking around for free ranging.

My mallards start almost exactly at 6 months. Yes they will lay infertile eggs if no drake is around.

 

[QuackedUp]

Thanks!

 

[QuackedUp]

Do you ever cook with those eggs?