- Mar 21, 2009
- 2,229
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Housing mini ducks is really not much different than housing full size ducks. I am forever trying to come up with the best system for housing them. It seems that no matter what you do, there are pros and cons.
At this point, my favorite material to use for runs is 1x2 welded wire. I cut the wire into panels and clip them together with cage clips (hog rings). I like this method because the panels are rigid enough to not need frames. For doors, I have been using metal framed doors that I used to use in my parrot flights. They are available from several suppliers.
On the floor of the runs, the best thing I have ever used is pea gravel covered by sand. It stays much cleaner than dirt/grass and I think it is nicer for the birds than wire floors. Using gravel or sand under food/water dishes and pools is almost a must (unless they're on wire).
For pools, right now I am using a combination of various containers that can be dumped and refilled pretty much daily. For shelter, I have used dog houses, small three sided shelters, and even just wood or greenhouse siding positioned over part of the run. That is usually all waterfowl need for shelter.
** As far using 2x4 wire, I have mostly gone away from using it. I like the strength of the 1x2 wire better and I have heard of people having birds get caught up in the 2x4 wire. I have never had one do that, but I would rather not risk it.
At this point, my favorite material to use for runs is 1x2 welded wire. I cut the wire into panels and clip them together with cage clips (hog rings). I like this method because the panels are rigid enough to not need frames. For doors, I have been using metal framed doors that I used to use in my parrot flights. They are available from several suppliers.
On the floor of the runs, the best thing I have ever used is pea gravel covered by sand. It stays much cleaner than dirt/grass and I think it is nicer for the birds than wire floors. Using gravel or sand under food/water dishes and pools is almost a must (unless they're on wire).
For pools, right now I am using a combination of various containers that can be dumped and refilled pretty much daily. For shelter, I have used dog houses, small three sided shelters, and even just wood or greenhouse siding positioned over part of the run. That is usually all waterfowl need for shelter.
** As far using 2x4 wire, I have mostly gone away from using it. I like the strength of the 1x2 wire better and I have heard of people having birds get caught up in the 2x4 wire. I have never had one do that, but I would rather not risk it.
