Raising Ducks - Few Aspects That You Have to First Ask Yourself Before Starting to Rear Ducks

Raising ducks can both be a profitable and
enjoyable endeavor. Studies have shown that
about a staggering twenty-two million ducks are
raised every year in the United States alone.
The primary reason why ducks are reared is for
meat production. The other reason is for their
egg-laying capabilities. In fact, raising ducks
has become a hobby and upon a closer look at how
it is done, it comes as a no surprise. Ducks are
extremely sociable and likeable animals. They
are very loyal and make good companions, which
is why their popularity as pets is also fast
increasing.When it comes to raising ducks, there
are a few things that you have to first ask
yourself before beginning.

The first step in raising ducks is to find out
which breed to rear. If what you are after is
profit, then the type of duck to get should
either be good egg-layers or one that weighs
heavily for meat production. However, if your
aim is to keep or sell them as pets, choose
ducks that are companiable and pretty to look
at.

Breeding ducks is also a matter of great
importance and thus needs to be done in caution.
It is advisable that ducks be reared to a
marketing age first so that it is easy to
determine their body weight. The idea is to pass
on the characteristics of the duck to its
offspring in combination with the
characteristics of its partner. Ducks and drakes
that are a year old is considered the best age to
mate them.

In keeping ducks, shelter is of prime importance
and you should be able to provide them a home
that is catered for their specific needs. Ducks
do not nest and therefore, lay their eggs
wherever they may be. This characteristic of
theirs is often the cause of egg loss since
after dropping the eggs, they can break upon
impact and can be exposed to certain predators
like snakes. To prevent this, the duck house
floor should be covered with straw or wood
shavings, and should be secure enough to keep
the ducks safe from harm. You should also ensure
that the shelter have adequate ventilation and
drainage.

Next, provide the ducks with waterers and
feeders to serve as containers for water and
food respectively. Although not essential, it is
also advisable to have a water body nearby the
duck houses so the ducks can have somewhere to
exercise and swim.

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If you think you still need guidance on raising
ducks, consulting existing duck owners and
farmers will certainly be a big help. If you are
interested to learn more tips about raising ducks
correctly, please visit:
http://www.howtoraiseducks.com

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