Muscovy spacing question

[Yo Yo Oreo]

Hey everyone! I have a couple questions that I hope you can help me with.

I've created an area for some ducks, muscovy specifically. Its about 14' long by 8' wide. There is also a separate little run right next to it that is 5' X 8' that I am considering joining into the duck area so the total size is 19' X 8'.

I am planning on picking up a mother with her 9 ducklings. The babies are around 6 weeks old. My thought was to keep at least 1 drake and process any of the extras that I don't plan to keep. How many in your opinion would be comfortable on my area of either size? I should mention the 14x8 area includes a 4x7 insulated shelter on the ground and a raised wood shelter roughly 3'x4'. The raised shelter also provides lots of space to walk under.

My hope is one drake with 3 females. Is that realistic? Thanks for your advice and opinions everyone!!

 

[ronott1]

I hope you enjoy your new adventure!

@oldhenlikesdogs might be able to help

 

[Miss Lydia]

1 drake to 3-4 females is a good idea the more females the better. My Muscovy drake has 4 females and no show of wear an tear.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

It definitely does depend on the drake. I had 2 drake to 15 hens and it was too much. Necks were getting bald. Multiple drakes will sometimes fight during the breeding season. They can be big knockdown brawls here.

Your pen sizes sound fine to me. Make sure to give them some roosts.