Protein levels for ducklings

[KMC1234]

Hi, I am a first time duckling mum and I have a question about food. I understand that ducklings need 20 - 22% protein levels in their food for the first 3 weeks. However the only non medicated chick crumbs i can find are all 19% protein, is this ok or do I need to add something to get the protein up to 20 - 22%. I know I need to add Niacin and have brewers yeast to do this, but that doesn't affect protein levels does it? Thanks for any help.

 

[EggSighted4Life]

I know I need to add Niacin and have brewers yeast to do this, but that doesn't affect protein levels does it? Thanks for any help.

I prefer Purina flock raiser.. fed through maturity, I add oyster shell on the side for layers but never switch.. 20% protein... NO need to supplement niacin unless raising Jumbo Pekin... as the amount it contains IS 55mg/kg.. per contact with the company as it isn't required to be listed on the guaranteed analysis.

Also.. it does NOT have to be non medicated. The amount of amprolium in medicated feed (in the US) is not an issue. Regardless of protein content (which often correlates) amino acid content is really key.

Tractor Supply if you have that available carries the flock raiser and also they've started carrying duckling feed recently.

No, niacin does not effect protein levels... it effects vitamin B3 levels.

You might find lots of good information checking this sites' resources.. my link is to the nutrition page.. but anything under the "info" tab should be informative...
https://www.metzerfarms.com/NutritionalRequirements.cfm?affiliate=undef&CustID=25521786
https://www.metzerfarms.com/NutritionalRequirements.cfm?affiliate=undef&CustID=25521786

I personally hate those low protein chick starters and generally consider them to be lower quality aiming directly at folks wallets.. meeting MINIMUM standards is not the same as AMPLE.. but that just me.

Hope your babies thrive!

 

[KMC1234]

Thanks for that information. The Purina flock raiser sounds perfect but i don't think I can get that here in the UK

I will have a good look though the links you sent though, thank you.