Raising Pet Ducks

Pets are a delight to have around, especially if you are living alone in a house. While a dog is considered as the most popular pet, there are several other animals and birds which people love to have at home. Amongst them are ducks, which are very sociable, attention-seeking birds. Aquatic birds, they are also a pleasure to look at. While gardeners are happy to have them around, as they eat all the bugs in the garden, children love to play with them. While it's exciting to have pet ducks, it is very necessary for you to be aware of the right approach. If you want to know how to raise ducks as pets, make use of the tips given below.

Raising Pet Ducks

Things Required

10 feet of Yard Space, for each duck (minimum)
Shelter
Pond or Kiddie Pool
Starter Feed

Directions

You need to be aware of certain information before you purchase ducks as your pets. It's you who would be the care taker of the bird, so you must be well-read about its nature, eating habits, etc. It would also help you to choose the particular breed you want.
It is generally suggested to take on 2 or more ducklings, as ducks are social in nature.
For the first three weeks, feed the ducklings with starter feed, which contains 20 to 22 percent protein.
After the end of three weeks, their food should contain 16 percent protein.
Adult ducks require 16 to 18 percent protein, when laying, and 14 to 16 percent protein, when not laying.
Make sure that you keep the feed in a heavy plastic air tight container, to avoid contamination.
Till the time ducks are small, you need to provide them with a shallow dish of water, to drink and play in.
Once the ducks get older, a pond or a kiddie pool in your backyard will be a great option for their retreat.
If you have opted for a kiddie pool, ensure that the pool allows you to replace water each day. Have a board placed before the pool, in the form of a ramp, which allows ducks to get in and out.
Keep baby ducklings in a cage that has a covering of a pond liner, an old soft towel or blanket, in the bottom. Ducklings require a heat source in their living space. Place it on one side of the container, with the water dish on the opposite side. Ducklings love to sleep under a source of heat.
Build a shelter for your ducks, which will protect them from harsh weather conditions.
The cage for a ducking should be large enough for it to fully expand and flap its wings. Hay or straw can be used for bedding. Make sure that you do not cage grown ducks.
Ducks are attention seekers. So, remember to adore your pets, as they grow.

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