tips for raiseing ducklings

[kidsnchicks]

Hi, we are just getting into raiseing a few feathered friends, we are getting a few chicks and a couple of ducklings. I know they can't swim right away, but what age do I need to be thinking of getting them a pool? They will more than likely be kept with our chicks or will that not work? Are there specific things they need or don't need that the chicks do or dont? We are gathering as much info as possable before we get any! Thanks

 

[duckyfromoz]

You can brood them together- however the ducklings will be the ones making all the mess in there. Duckling will make much more mess when drinking- and also need deeper water to ensure they can keep their nostrils and eyes clean.

You may like to do some research on the different feed types before you buy some - as some kinds of medicated feed are not recommended for ducklings- Also chickens and ducklings do have some different needs when it comes to vitamins and minerals in the feeds.

I let my ducklings have a swim in the bath tub from around 3-4 days old- under supervision- and only for a few minutes. They always need somewhere warm to dry off afterwards too. Once they are about 6 weeks old and mostly featherd I put mine outside and they have access to a small pool that they can get in and out of themselves. Ducklings tend to not need extra heat for as long as chickens as they are faster growing.