Advantages Of Breeding Ducks!

Since ducks are wild water birds, the common notion is that breeding ducks must be difficult. This is far from true. Ducks have been domesticated and strains produced to make it easier for breeding and used for egg and meat production.

The percentage of the poultry population that duck represents is ten percent and is second only to chicken, which is the most sought after.

With the advent of scientific breeding for ducks, things have changed tremendously for breeders and provide a greater scope for duck breeding.

There are several advantages of breeding ducks when compared to other poultry.

For one thing, ducks do not need as much attention as other poultry do and are not as sensitive. They are resistant to many parasites, avian and other diseases and this makes it easy to house them and feed them. Since these birds are tough and not delicate like chicken, they are good for integrated farming, and can even be bred along with fish.

A duck breeding area is easy to maintain and there are several places they can be bred. The marshy river side and wet land are perfect for breeding. Being small birds, they can also be kept in small pens or sheds. This eliminates the need for extensive farming houses with different temperature settings.

Even where laying eggs is concerned, ducks lay about 50 eggs more than chicken and these eggs are heavier by 15 or 20 grams too, making it much more profitable for the breeders. Duck eggs are in demand and there are some people who prefer them to chicken eggs. Although duck eggs are said to have higher fat content and more cholesterol, they are also said to be higher in omega-3 fatty acids, which are considered essential for human health and cannot be produced by the body.

Ducks are mild natured birds and breeders do not have to worry about agonistic behavior. That’s what makes them good for breeding even from the hobby point of view. These birds are fascinating and kids love to watch them. They are small in size and do not need too much space too.

After hatching, it is very easy to sex ducklings and this saves on labor. Their feathers are valuable and many industries would buy them from the breeders for a good sum.

Duck breeding has become popular these days owing to the several benefits such as reduced cost of replacement, less feeding, less space requirement, more egg production and many more.

Matthew Smith has been working with poultry for many years. Advice is offered on keeping poultry and the different types of duck breeds.