New Duck Owner

[HoP]

Hi everyone,
Well I purchased two Runner ducklings about two weeks ago and have been on here looking for answers. A few I haven't found.
I have five chickens (spoiled), who have free run of my yard. They have a coop they go in at night.
1. Will my ducks go in there too?
2. Is it OK for my ducks to eat the chicken food?
3. Can I use the chicken wormer I have for the ducks?
4. I have about 5 bird seed holders.. I was reading ducks are not supposed to eat that, but they will have free run like my chickens.
I appreciate any and all advice.
Right now it's too early to let them out, but here in a month..they will be going into the yard.(I have a big pond).
Thanks!

 

[jonhpdx]

1. They potentially can go in there. I wouldn't put them in a coop that's outside before 3-4 weeks old but maybe that's just me. The bigger problem is that generally people seem to have problems raising chickens and ducks together because they can harass each other and ducks can cause a big mess with water that chickens do not. You can try it out, but I'd advise doing so until the ducks are a little older.

2. It's OK for your ducks to eat the chicken food as long as it's non-medicated. Medicated food messes with ducks systems.

3. I don't know what chicken wormer is, but if I had to guess you shouldn't be feeding it to the ducks. Ducks are generally much healthier animals than chickens and don't usually have to be vaccinated or be fed medications to prevent disease. I would guess the same holds true for worms.

4. From my understanding seeds aren't good food for ducks. I personally have never fed my ducks seeds of any kind. They tend to prefer the greener foods like peas, cucumbers and lettuce (or at least mine do).

Good look from a fellow Portlandian!

 

[HoP]

Thank you. No they won't be ready for outside until June.
I read Ducks can get worms and usually do.
The ducks will be free roaming and my bird feeders are everywhere.
I did not know chickens and ducks did not get along.
I have a big pond and the chickens usually drink from the dogs water bowl on the porch so I don't see a mess problem.
I have layer feed so I will ask at the place I get it, if its going to be OK.
Thank you!