My 2 year old ducks aren't laying

[Drimhof]

I bought 2 year old ducks from a farmer off craigslist, a white layer, Swedish blue and cayuga-kahki cross. We also had 4 males but now only 1, they were rough on the girls. They are on layer feed just like the chickens. We had 3 eggs one week in early January and then nothing. Any ideas on how to encourage egg production?

 

[Chaneys Ranch]

None of my ducks lay in January. What state are you located?

 

[Drimhof]

Im im Oregon soutg of Portland.

 

[Emma Wilson]

chicken eggs hatch about 21 days from the beginning of incubation or nesting by a broody hen.

 

[Miss Lydia]

I'm not getting duck eggs either, most likely once daylight gets longer we'll begin to see duck eggs, My chickens are just getting started back.

 

[lomine]

I'm not getting any duck eggs either and my chickens just started again a couple weeks ago.

I'm wondering about the 3 eggs you got though. Did you just get these ducks at the beginning of the month? If you just got them it would explain why they laid when they first came (egg already in the system) but then stopped. Moving is stressful so they'll normally stop and take a while to settle in and lay again. With the shorter days it may take even longer.

 

[PirateGirl]

I just asked this same question elsewhere so I will follow to see what folks tell you. I too got ducks off Craigslist, they will be 2 in spring. It's been a few days, no eggs. I'm sure the move stressed them but don't know how long is "normal" to go off laying from stress. How long has it been since you brought your ducks home?

 

[lomine]

It can take anywhere from a week to a month. It all depends on the duck and the situation. If they were on supplemental light before and aren't now that could also effect the laying. As long as the hens aren't acting abnormal (straining, distended belly, not eating), they should be fine. (But do check bedding or hiding places periodically because they like to hide the eggs.)