Save my ducklings

[Seafarm]

My hens have worked hard to raise ducklings but I have had crows and ravens kill several of the years. I have heard getting a goose will help protect my fuzzy little ducklings. Anyone have any experience with this. If so what kind and how many? I have 10 hens and 4 drakes (one is my only survivor this year). I plan to get him a couple of girls of his own to raise with the goose. Any help would be appreciate. Thanks

 

[Crazy Maizie]

Geese are as prone to predators as any other poultry. Ducklings and chicks are susceptible to getting picked off and really keeping them in a secure pen is one of the best protections you can offer. It's my understanding that crows and ravens keep hawks at bay. So, you might be able to keep one predator away, but have another take its place.
If you're set on getting a goose, you really need 2.
And, it sounds like you already know this, but your drake to hen ratio is not the best, but if it is working for your flock, that's all that matters.

 

[FoodFreedomNow]

I have a large gaggle of geese, and have had Runner ducks range with them. Geese are effective aerial predator deterrents, but should not be relied upon as livestock guardians. And, as @Crazy Maizie already noted, geese should have companions of their own kind for their wellbeing (and possibly yours).

If you haven't already seen it, Pyxis did a post on why you shouldn't keep a single goose - it's very informative and I hope you consider her points when making your decision about how to best protect your ducks.

A secure pen or run would be most effective in keeping ducklings safe, at least until they're large enough that crows and ravens would be less tempted. Best of luck.

 

[cmom]

I have large covered pens with electric wires around my coops and pens and nothing has breached. Good luck...