5 Reason Why I Love Keeping Ducks
This is a short list of reasons why I love my ducks. Ducks are a wonderful addition to the farm. When people visit they are attracted to the ducks. We have three breeds on the far. It all started with a visit to the local feed store in the Spring time. My little girl just couldn’t go home without a duck. The baby Rouen duck was our first. Later we ordered the Australian Spotted ducks. As a bonus, Holderread Waterfowl Farm & Preservation Center included a couple Indian Runner ducks.
Reason No. 1 To Want Ducks
Eggs! Yep we love the duck eggs. Of the three breeds we keep here on the farm, the Rouen ducks are the most consistent egg layers. The Indian Runners and the Australian Spotted ducks take long breaks from laying eggs. They primarily lay eggs in the Spring time. Rouen ducks take a short break in the Summer but lay most of the year otherwise.
Reason No. 2 To Want Ducks
The ducks are really good at messing up a pool of water. For me this is really good. The nutrients that the ducks leave behind are great for adding to the compost pile or to the garden beds. This waste can be use for good. We let the ducks dirty up a pool for a few days then we scoop it out with our trusty kitty litter buckets to pour onto the gardens.
Reason No. 3 To Want Ducks
Ducks don’t scratch up the yard and flower beds like chickens do. They wiggle their bills into the soil and find the goodies. Normally this is up against the edge of the trees, rocks and pools. This method of foraging is very pleasant. We don’t have to worry about them destroying our landscaping.
Reason No. 4 To Want Ducks
Reason 3 was about HOW they eat. Reason 4 is about WHAT they eat. The ducks love to find their high protein snacks in the form of snails, slugs and grubs. I love that they eat these buggers. Occasionally I’ll turn ’em loose in the garden to help eliminate the snails and slugs in the garden beds. Most of the time they will leave the garden plants alone.
Reason No. 5 To Want Ducks
They are Cute! Of course we had to have this for a reason. The ducks are so much fun! They have wonderful little personalities. Ducks are not always the most affectionate birds, but they do enjoy being with you. Sometimes they don’t mind being held. How can you watch ducks and not smile?
Story and images taken from my blog: http://daddykirbs.com/5-reasons-want-ducks/
Here is the video produced on the Daddykirbs farm about our ducks.
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Do you eat the duck eggs?
We do. I actually prefer them over chicken eggs. The difference is subtle. The duck eggs are "fattier" in a good way. They are amazing for using in baked goods like my WAFFLES!.
I've had chickens for several years. Just got ducks this year. Three runners. My only concern is that they will be killed by predators this winter. Any suggestions?
I have had a challenge with Coyotes, Hawks, Owls, and a Skunk. I would suggest a secure enclosure with a good tall fence. It would be best that there is even a net or wire cover. If none of this is an option, then I would be very mindful about the area where they are allowed to free range. Keep an eye on them. Good luck!