Raising ducks for meat

[kesrchicky16]

So I have a collection of ducks that all hatched this spring (Except the mommies). I have discovered Runner ducks don't "mature" as quickly as other breeds. I have to over winter them with my chickens. They have been together 3 weeks no problem and I discovered my "head drake" was attacked by a rooster. I also notice 3 newly curling tails that weren't there a month ago. I can't keep 5 drakes in a total of 15 ducks.

First step thin the drake population. If the roo aggression continues he will join these in the freezer.

That being said. These will be my first slaughters ever and my DH hasn't since helping his parents. I have read extensively about processing chickens, the debate between skinning and plucking ducks, and that ax is the only real way to not torture a duck because of the stronger neck muscles.

Is there anything specific to duck processing I need to know, post feather removal? Also I know with deer there are ways to cook it to reduce the gamey taste. I am a "white meat chicken" kinda gal and can taste the heavier, greasier difference of turkey in comparison. What can I expect from duck?

And yes I know runners won't provide much meat. I got ducks for eggs and entertainment but I believe animals are happiest when they fulfill every purpose they can. To kill for killing only is wrong. Their only "sin" was being unable to lay eggs.

 

[sourland]

Plucking ducks is a chore, but the skin when cooked is so very tasty. If you taste a 'heavier, greasier difference' in turkeys, you may not like duck. It is dark and somewhat greasy, but in my opinion so very tasty. On the other hand, the Princess does not enjoy duck.

Observe your flock. Is it possible that the rooster is attacking the drake because he is trying to breed the chicken hens ? This can cause serious mating problems because of the physical differences between drakes and roosters.

 

[EggSighted4Life]

Hi.

I remember hearing there is some kind of wax that makes it easier to pluck ducks but also it is difficult to get the water for scalding down to the skin.

Even though there may not be much meat on a runner or my Silkies, we also do NOT let them go to waste. They are just as edible as any other bird.

My ducks always bullied my chickens but my roosters stay in a stag pen. I personally wouldn't keep ANY drakes in with my chickens. If they try to mate them (and they do), whether for mating or as a dominance display... it can be deadly for the hen.

Good luck!

 

[kesrchicky16]

I am watching and understood, from my first consideration of getting ducks, the differences. I haven't seen him approach any of the chickens. Infact the only time the ducks "interact" with the chickens at all is when I take food out. It almost seems like the ducks think of themselves as better then the chickens.

At any rate I have too many drakes ignoring the roosters and chickens altogether. Like I said I have a total of 15 ducks, 5 male and 10 female (unless more tales decide to turn. I've only gotten 5 eggs in any 1 day so...)

I enjoy watching them but I can watch 3 ducks as easy at 12 so I have to look at the cost too. Males are either food or fathers and I don't need 5 fathers.

So yes I will keep watching for other problems in the chicken / duck interactions but these 3 have to go regardless.