messy messy??????????????

[duckdad]

A duck is the only creature on the earth that has the ability to dump ON a plastic water bottle and have it inside too.


...70%cocoa...
I wondered the exact same thing as I watched my 2 kids grow up. During the time growing and almost being able to see feathers move thru their skin, I often wondered how is it possible that the creature can excrete more solid matter than it takes in, and still GROW during the process?


BTW...
beware the hazards of blueberrys.....
thats like permanent ink in a ducks poo paint gun.

I once fended off an attacker while holding my duck...

I turned and aimed the business end toward the guy, then I lifted the drake feather and told the guy "this ducks loaded and I'm not afraid to use it"

 

[Mike Winters]

dont worry they make up for being messy by being the only animal that can look cute while bathing in about any liqiud

 

[galgo98]

70%cocoa :

Yep, all true. Except I reckon that ducks actually generate matter. What comes out HAS TO BE more than went in. They defy the laws of physics.

x2!!!!​

 

[Tivona]

You asked about mold and the hay I use. I haven't had much problem with mold in the hay. I use about an inch if weather is good and stir it when I let them out in the morning to make it last a few days. In colder weather I use more for their comfort also stirring it but watching closely for any sings of mold. Mold seldom grows in fresh air and sun from my experience. I have seen it start when I have the thicker layers for them during cold and also in areas that are shaded and have less air such as behind a nest box. I just make a habit of letting the birds out in the garden, quick stirring or pulling out the hay, grab the eggs, and if I removed the hay then I just take the hay from the nest boxes and sprinkle it out on the ground (adding more if needed) then put fresh in the boxes. It keeps the nest boxes fresh as well that way. I do keep an eye out for mold though because mold is not good for their health (or any other critters for that matter).

duckdad mentioned blueberries and the staining poo. Blackberry poo is just as bad. And they do love slinging food and pooping everywhere. I make sure to only have things that I don't mind being stained/squashed/ruined anywhere near the birds. I wash dishes and the pool frequently but things do start to look a bit shabby over time. Having a scrub brush tucked somewhere near the pen has been helpful. That way I don't have to haul things if they just need a quick scrub and rinse. The actual feed container I do have to bring in to wash because its important for it to be really dry going back out for the food. But poop, mess and ducks all come together. Planning on having a set up where it is manageable like your doing is really a great idea.

 

[clucksbc]

my goodness cerlainly sounds like I have an interesting adventures ahead

thanks 4 the blueberrie and blackberrie tips...we are blessed with tasty blueberrie bushes,
the chickens loved them...will be carefull...

they look so cute in pictures...and you know what..I am still not stirring from my duck plans...
but like to go into things knowing needs, and providing the best I can......
first duck need...a hose...got it..

 

[70%cocoa]

Make that a hose with a jet attachment.

Glad you are still pro-duck. They are delightful characters. They are a lot of work but they will make you happy.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Quote:

They also like elderberries so you can actually get a mix of colors.

 

[mominoz]

Think pond type rock you can hose (rounded edges) or 'horse mats' (rubber) so you can hose. or if you plan to use shavings or hay, you will be cleaning alot. I hose down my pond rock aviary (carport with pond rock subdivided into 'apartments'). I of course have a well here in Georgia.PTL! I also have around 42 ducks or something like that..... My runners and hookbills are pretty quiet compared to the mini-ducks and the larger Saxony. Grey Runners are nosier than the Penciled.... hhhmmm I clean every 2-3 days, and only 8 mini's are in it full time.....the others only at night.

 

[m.kitchengirl]

I asked for 3 rain barrels for Christmas. I am water conscious, too, and I am looking forward to installing my rain barrels in spring.

 

[Wulfandwyn]

Quote:

I use a kiddie pool for my ducks and I would swear within a half hour of cleaning and refilling it you would not even know I had touched it. Everything tastes better dipped in water.