New member. Lots of questions.

[Froglegs]

Hello everyone,

I am looking to get into keeping ducks, and am working on getting information together to make sure I do it properly and figure out what I can do; we have about 7 acres with a spring fed pond. Previously owners left a dog house that is in decent shape that I would like to use if at all possible, if it isn't suitable then I will just have to try to build something. Doghouse is 45" deep, and 37.5" wide. It is 38" tall in the front, and 22" tall in the back; the entrance is 15" wide. Wood seems to be in good shape all around, but could use a cleaning and some paint. What are the thoughts on adapting this for ducks? The only animals we have at the moment are 2 friendly horses and a dog; dog is friendly and harmless.

I am thinking of adapting the dog house to 4 ducks if possible (maybe 3?) for eggs and build a run around it. Not sure on the size of the run, so any input there would be helpful. From what I understand, I *might* be able to turn the ducks loose during the day when noone is home (entire property has a cattle style fencing around it, with 2 seperate large pastures). Despite the fencing, there are plenty of areas for the ducks to fit through (as well as predators I fear) and go where they please. I should be able to train them to come back to the coop in the evening to be put up at night? We have seen a fox after dark on the property, and there are coyotes known to be in the area but we have never seen one here. Neighbor on one fenceline has a donkey, and ive heard that helps keep predators at bay but I don't know much about that.

I would prefer to have larger numbers and raise them for meat rather than strictly eggs, but just don't know where to begin. Any information would be much appreciated. Thank you,

 

[Texag87]

The dog house would be too small for more than two smaller breed ducks. Also, it needs ventilation . You should consider going big when building a coop because its really hard to stop at 4 ducks once you get started. The predator situation you are describing is dicey . I would plan on building a pen area around the duck house. You would use a smaller mesh wire than what they use for cattle simply to protect against the larger predators. Raccoons are the biggest problem . Also, think about hawks and eagles from above. Someone will come along with more suggestions and welcome to BYC

 

[Miss Lydia]

@DuckyDonna has a really nice secure set up. Very big but maybe give some ideas on what you need to keep them safe from predators.

 

[DuckyDonna]

It's really cool that the previous owners left you a house but I think that house might be fine for them to snuggle into on cold days but will be a nightmare for you to clean out.

First of all I'd like to know where you are located. It would be nice if you'd put your location in your personal information so we'd know how to deal with this.