so, I am planning on getting some ducks in the near future. I have chickens presently. But, have always wanted ducks. I absolutely love ducks right now, we are cleaning out the pond, was full of bull rush , FULL !!!!! It is a nice size pond, not a lake, but, lots of swimming area. I just don't know what breed to get. suggestions. This is what I am looking for, good egg layers broodiness popular with the people (to sell, if hatch ducklings) non flighty. non aggressive (with each other) (or close to) not as messy cute and adorable ( ) oh and likes to be cuddled too, haha. and is their a link to house ideas for them. I want to let them in the pond during the day, and lock them at night. I want them to be able to access their run and home during the day if they need to evade a predator. I am planning on putting the coop beside the pond. I am however not interested in muscovies, Indian runner. I am liking the appleyard(??), the cayuga, the magpie .... let me know what your suggestions are. thanks
no favorites for anyone? anyone know a good duck site, where I could check out all the breeds and info?
I'm currently debating the same thing. I'm having a hard time deciding between Khaki Campbells or Buff Ducks. The Campbells I've read will lay better, more than most chickens even. However I really, really like the way the Buff Ducks look, they're so pretty. So maybe a couple of both!
it's tougher then it seems, there are quite a few interesting breeds. good luck with your choice. this is my list, trying to narrow it down to 1 or 2 breeds. in order of preference silver appleyard welsh harlequin magpie rouen cayuga khaki campbell orpington
Less messy? Bwaa haa haa haa Anyway...as for your other requirements, Welsh Harlequins sound like the perfect duck for you.
haha, thanks, I knew I was going out on a limb for less messy, but, hey, one can always try right. I like the welsh harlequins too, they look very nice. not sure if I can find them here on the island or not.
Welsh or Buffs. I have a Buff I rescued thinking he was a duck Oh well he is little trouble. I also have runners and pekins . You may also consider hybrid 300 layers. If I had it to do over again I would either flock up on Buffs or hybrid layers.
I have runners and love them. They are real characters...I hatched 4 that I have in an incubator and they are the most tame. The two I got as adults from a hatchery are less tame. They come to the door of their pen when I go out to feed them. When I open the door they come out and help me fill up the feed dish and take a nibble or two while the lid is off. They love peas. I took a couple of them to my nephew's birthday party and they were great entertainment - I teach 5th grade and I take them to school every once in a while. I took them all in for "Love of Reading Night" and they were a hit. They lay lots of eggs - but I've heard others say they are scared easily.
Quote:I was thinking the exact same thing Wifezilla. I've never met a duck that wasn't messy. But their mess is worth it. From the sounds of the other requirements, Welsh Harlequins or Silver Appleyards would be perfect.
