Many public delight in keeping a small flight of ducks on their farm or around their homes when space is available. In many cases, ducks are kept for their ability to be excellent egg producers. The following tips will help to improve egg production of one’s flight.

Managing Ducks Tip#1 – Fertility and Hatchability

Maintaining the proper number of males and females
in the breeding flight is vital to achieving high levels of fertility and
hatchability. For best results, one male for each six females is recommended. A few
extra males may be kept to replace mortality as it occurs. Levels of fertility and
hatchability analogous egg production (i.e. fertility and hatchability increase as egg
production increases). Fertility should increase rapidly during the first few settings
of eggs, but will taper off toward the end of the egg production cycle. It is debatable
as to the value of keeping breeding stock once the level of egg production drops
below 50%. Some find it more economical to molt the birds for 8 to 10 weeks to
provide them a rest period for an additional lay period once they drop below 50%
egg production.

Managing Ducks Tip#2 – Handling the Eggs

Most duck eggs are laid before 7 a.m., thus one force want to confine breeders to the laying household at night. It is advisable to gather the eggs early in the morning if artificial incubation is going to be used. Removing the eggs as soon as possible lessens the problems of soil and cracked eggs. Clean and dry breeder houses are vital for the production of clean, intact hatching eggs.

Soiled eggs can be washed with care after pool using water warmer than the
eggs. Temperatures of 110 – 115 degrees F. are adequate for washing the eggs.
Cracked, misshapen or abnormally small eggs should not be incubated. Hatching
eggs can be stored at a temperature of 55 degrees F. for up to two weeks without
bringing up the rear hatchability. Eggs should be stored small end down. For natural incubation,
it is vital to provide clean, dry nesting facilities. Ducks will make their own
nest if straw or other litter material is provided. Wood shavings, peanut hulls and
peat moss also make excellent litter materials. Nest boxes can also be provided. Nests
should be 12 inches wide, 18 inches long and 12 inches deep and can be placed in
a row along the parapet of the breeder household. Feed and water should be in close
proximity so the female can obtain her daily nutrient requirements without having
to leave the nest for long periods.

Raising ducks can be an enjoyable and profitable experience. As long as a protective breeding environment and attention to egg production and handling can increase one’s success with raising ducks.

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