Newbie Advice - Welsh Harlequins

[enggass]

Hi All,
I have had chickens for almost 4 years now. I am planning on hatching some duck eggs this coming season. I am very interetsed in Welsh Harlequin... From what I have read they are very easy natured and decent layers. My question is, what can I expect in regards to noise and Drake behavior. All I know is chickens... I do not have any Roosters, though I would love to, due to the crowing. Partially due to neighbors but they are not a huge concern. Are Drakes nasty like Roosters can be? What can I expect in regards to noise - I am sure they can be loud at times, but with what sort of frequency? I as thinking of having 2 girls and 1 Drake. Will that work? What sort of ratio is good with Ducks? I would like to keep a male if possible, but will go with just ladies as with my chickens if need be... Newbie here - any advice appreciated.

 

[Kevin565]

Female ducks can be quite loud and frequency will vary by individual. In general WH are a much better choice than certain other breeds when it comes to noise. I've never personally raised chickens but many people say drakes are much nicer than roosters. 2 girls and 1 drake should work as long as your drake isn't too aggressive when it comes to breeding.

 

[DUCKGIRL89]

I have 2 pairs, and a rouen hen, the rouen is by FAR the LOUDEST duck I have ever had. I perfer my Wh over her, theyare pretty, lay great, and are friendly. Love em!

 

[ChristineR]

Female ducks can be quite loud and frequency will vary by individual. In general WH are a much better choice than certain other breeds when it comes to noise. I've never personally raised chickens but many people say drakes are much nicer than roosters. 2 girls and 1 drake should work as long as your drake isn't too aggressive when it comes to breeding.

x2

I like my WH. I only have one now and she is LOUD, so it is very much an individual thing. She mostly raises a ruckus at breakfast and dinner time, though, and only when she sees me (sometimes even if she sees me moving about in the house through the window).

Most of my drakes have been very nice. I've had one very aggressive drake, but even he is better than my neighbor's roosters that have been mean. You don't have to worry about spurs, flying up at you, etc. The worst a drake can do is bite, which isn't pleasant, but it's not such a worry around kids, etc.