Total Newbie, I know I will seem stupid/ but some questions

[aligarysmom]

• My concern in that area is butchering birds. I know here we can’t have roosters—normal but we also can’t butcher birds in the yard. And although the bees haven’t caused the neighbors to freak the culling of birds could. Just FYI. Not that I am a model rule follower. My motto is that’s dumb....how much trouble will it be and f@&$ it I’m doing it. But you could lose both birds and bees
• Just so you know, I love my birds and would never deter anyone from getting them. Just giving you heads up

 

[Rose Quartz]

I just did a bunch of research in to Quail, with the limited backyard space they might be an option. they would need a heated space in the winter though.
(I don't own any but I'm considering it once my location changes)

 

[PirateGirl]

I recommend thinking about what factors are most important to you. Eggs, meat, and/or reproduction. Rank these things. Also if the bird needs to be a good mother and raise ducklings on her own or if you want to incubate the eggs in an incubator and brood the ducklings indoors in a brooder. Some ducks may be great for one of these things but not all of these things. Also with meat and eggs is it for your own consumption or for sale? Your state will have regulations on these things and the type of processing/egg washing facility that may or may not be required. All of these may factor into your decision.

Metzer has a basic duck breed comparison chart for the common breeds available in the US.

http://www.metzerfarms.com/DuckBreedComparison.cfm

The book Storey's Guide to Raising Ducks has a really great section detailing the different breeds and the pros and cons to each. (It's full of other great info as well). If you aren't trying to get ducks immediately, I'd give both of these a read to help you decide what is best for you.

Also it sounds like you have looked at your land use regulations, just double check if you are within city/town limits and/or governed by an HOA that there aren't additional restrictions.

Once you have all your ducks in a row, then go out and get some ducks!

 

[PirateGirl]

Also take a look here for coop inspiration and other great knowledge.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/

 

[casualty]

Just the assumption that your house and front yard take up >50% of your lot. Add in some space for other common features, and you have limited room. That's not that big of a deal really. Many of us confine our birds to a limited area, even if we allow them to free range for brief periods.

The problem I see is the smell and noise for your neighbors.

 

[PirateGirl]

I do find that my ducks smell more than my chickens and are noisier, but I think that the noise can vary with the breed.

 

[lilfarmchic]

I have 11 ducks and their yard is just about that size....that is if you are saying that their yard will be .15 that is big enough. They will make a mess of that area though....especially in the rain. They dig holes looking for grubs, worms, etc....lots and lots of holes and mud, mud, mud everywhere lol! But I love them! I have Cayugas, khaki campbells and muscovy. No plans on eating them. They provide us lots and lots of eggs and entertainment.

 

[BuckeyeBirdies]

If you decide to get ducks in a residential area, strong fence is a must! Area dogs will think you got them "chew toys." To agree with others ducks do smell...bad! And the are very noisy. Good luck & welcome!

 

[billharrison]

Thanks for all the great advice. I'm definitely open to other suggestions for my situation that anyone can make. Meat and eggs is our goal. Thanks again.

 

[featherhead007]

You are welcome.