Possible overbreeding problems

[marvun22]

Ok here's the problem. I ordered 7 females and 3 males. They sent me an extra, which happened to be male. A runner female died on the 2nd day. 2 nights ago, 1 rouen female died. The only good news I have is that my duck that hatched is quacking like a female. Either way, now I have 5 males and 8 females. Possible over breeding here? Or is the number small enough where everybody would just take a pair?

 

[Going Quackers]

I wouldn't recommend it. I have 9 ducks and 2 drakes in the big 'scovie flock BUT i also have two buff females up and coming. I do have 3 young drakes but they cannot stay lol Honestly, 2-3 per is best, yes in some situations all manage to get on but this is an exception not the rule.

Free ranging helps larger flocks get on, confined spaces? makes for a lot of issues, i separate my adult drakes at night or the one guy causes a heck of a fuss, the juvi boys are still locked up from the flock with their sister for now.

 

[marvun22]

They free range during the day

 

[Going Quackers]

Well that should lessen conflicts but won't necessarily remove them, I'd be prepared with a back up plan. Drake fights can be something else, my boys still fight on occasion, despite plenty of ladies and acres to roam.

 

[ducksinarow]

There could be major overbreeding. Drakes gang up on one female. You need a drake pen. Then you could lock up all but 1 or 2 of the boys and rotate the males out. I had bald ducks with 2 drakes and 3 females, until I got rid of 1 boy. Best of luck. With drakes less is best.