Pekin Ducks for Meat

[gucciderulo]

So I have been trying to find some research on raising pekins for meat. I have seen few things but not really much. I just ordered 20 ducklings from Ideal. This is my first year doing ducks for meat. What is the best time of feed for meat ducks? How much can I expect a single duck to eat between hatch and butcher date? What age is best to butcher pekins? I have read 7.5, 12, and 18 weeks? Whats the best for most meat to feed ratio? Sorry for all the questions, I am just curious how to save the most money.

 

[Amiga]

Do you have Storey's Guide to Raising Ducks? There is information in there.

 

[gucciderulo]

No I do not. I probably should get it. I didn't even think about that.

 

[flockman]

Least feed is used if you go with 7.5 weeks. That is what we do. I have had Pekins for meat and eggs for 3 years now.

 

[gucciderulo]

What weight are they usually then?

 

[TEXAS715]

Raise them up for 8 weeks.

Will average about 22lbs of feed per duck.

Hens will weigh about 6lbs. Drakes about 8lbs.

 

[circlecsranch]

Raise them up for 8 weeks.

Will average about 22lbs of feed per duck.

Hens will weigh about 6lbs. Drakes about 8lbs.

Is that dressed or live weight? I have 7 drakes getting ready for the freezer. They will be 11wks next week which is when we plan on processing out. I've also heard you want to process before they molt.

 

[Farmer lish]

Raise them up for 8 weeks.

Will average about 22lbs of feed per duck.

Hens will weigh about 6lbs. Drakes about 8lbs.

Do you let your ducks have free reign to their feed all day? Or what is your feed portion and time you feed? Thanks!

 

[Farmer lish]

Do you let your ducks have free reign to their feed all day? Or what is your feed portion and time you feed? Thanks!

Raise them up for 8 weeks.

Will average about 22lbs of feed per duck.

Hens will weigh about 6lbs. Drakes about 8lbs.

Aka do you have feed available for them all day?

 

[Ratchnick]

Yes, for broilers you provide food all day. Some people also provide 24/7 light and keep them confined to promote weight gain.