What to feed ducks?

[atr04screw]

I just got 2 pairs of wood ducks that are around 3-4 months old and need to know what to feed them. I got them last night and it wasn't planned at all, so I just gave them some water and lettuce last night, but I know that they need some real food soon. I have several different types of chicken feed, like medicated starter feed, laying crumbles, and some regular feed. Will the chicken feed be ok or do they need something different? Thanks.

 

[Deleted member 94844]

You need to feed them proper duck food. Mazuri Waterfowl is what we use... there are many differing opinions and types of feed, just search this site. Some people have their own special recipes. Do NOT feed the medicated chick starter as it can harm them.

I would also suggest that you get a copy of Storey's Guide to Raising Ducks by Dave Holderread.

Congratulations on your beautiful ducks!!

 

[atr04screw]

I got them some poultry grower from the store that says it is for ducks and chickens. I have another question too, is it legal for me to own these? The guy I got them from couldn't keep them anymore so he just gave them to me, and I'm not sure if he had any permits. If it's not legal, there is a swamp behind my house with lots of wood ducks that I can release them into.

 

[MadiLarson]

Game bird starter from the feed store works

 

[Deleted member 94844]

If they were captive-raised they should not be released... that is illegal. If they have been fed by humans it will be difficult for them to find food. If they were captured from the wild, it may not be legal to keep them. You need to check the laws in your state.