Oyster shell amounts?! Drake getting into oyster shell?

[MrsBeakley]

Hi all. I just acquired 3 adult chinese pekin ducks-- 2 females and 1 male. After over a month of having them, one of the females started laying thin shelled eggs that were breaking or no egg at all. I started reading about calcium deficiency and giving her oyster shell sounded like the best bet. However, the bag of oyster shell I got does not have any recommended amount to feed her and so I have just been sprinkling a handful on their food everyday. This does not seem to be enough though. How much do other people usually give? Also, I know you are not supposed to let the drake have any oyster shell, however the three of them are always together and it seems impossible to separate them. Any ideas?! Thanks!!!

 

[Miss Lydia]

Hi all. I just acquired 3 adult chinese pekin ducks-- 2 females and 1 male. After over a month of having them, one of the females started laying thin shelled eggs that were breaking or no egg at all. I started reading about calcium deficiency and giving her oyster shell sounded like the best bet. However, the bag of oyster shell I got does not have any recommended amount to feed her and so I have just been sprinkling a handful on their food everyday. This does not seem to be enough though. How much do other people usually give? Also, I know you are not supposed to let the drake have any oyster shell, however the three of them are always together and it seems impossible to separate them. Any ideas?! Thanks!!!

I put out oyster shell in a separate bowl for egg layers, where rain or snow can't get in it. I've seen my drakes nibble on it but they don't eat enough to hurt. I fill the bowl with OS and just refill when it gets towards the bottom. this is a stainless steel dog bowl that holds about 2 cups of food.

 

[MrsBeakley]

Thanks Miss Lydia! Very helpful,