Will I have Problems?

[zyklonbetty]

Hi, I have 3 chickens (hens) and recently decided to add some ducks (all about a month old.) We know that we aren't going to have a problem with ducks crowing like with chickens, but didnt really consider problems we may have with drakes. Are there any issues we should expect with a drake that we should take into account that are different than with the hens? All we did was research keeping hens, we just fell in love with the drake. any input/advice would be greatly appreciated. thanks!!

 

[easttxchick]

If you just have one drake, things should be fine.
You can also keep ONLY drakes(with no hens) and they generally form a little "Boy Band" and get along great.

 

[sourland]

Drakes generally have a testosterone overload and may start breeding your chickens. This can cause serious injury to your chickens as their reproductive tract is not designed for the insertion of "objects". Drakes have a penis- roosters do not.

 

[WalkerH]

Yes, it is probably best to separate the chickens and the ducks. Although mine are currently going through separation anxiety as they just recently lost their pullet ladies...

 

[hcppam]

If you got a female duck you might not have the drake on chicken thing.

 

[zyklonbetty]

I currently now have 2 drakes and 3 CHICKEN hens... has anyone ever had problems with the drake on chicken thing? they are all housed together and as far as i can tell- complete buddies.
How would I know the ducks were trying to get the hens?

 

[wbruder17]

In did not not know ducks had penises! Very interesting!

 

[newbyduckmom]

Quote:
The amazing things you learn on BYC ---- they look like a corkscrew.