Raising Ducks For Egg Laying

Shop the Meyer Hatchery website for our top duck breeds for egg laying.

Raising ducks for egg layers is somewhat similar to raising chickens, but here are some critical differences between the two species.

• Ducks do not need roosting bars like chickens do
• Ducks need an open water source to keep their nostrils, eyes and nasal passages clear

Health Concerns

As new hatchlings, beware of a condition common in waterfowl called Angel Wing. Too much dietary protein as ducklings is the primary cause. Generally, ducks are hardier than chickens.

Feeding Ducks For Laying

Ducklings need waterfowl starter feed with 20-22% protein. Medicated feed for coccidia is usually not needed for ducklings and some sources advise against feeding waterfowl feeds containing amprolium.

After ducklings are two weeks old, switch to a lower protein feed, 17-19%. It's important to feed waterfowl feed if you can find it since waterfowl require more niacin than chickens. When ducks are at laying age, switch to a waterfowl feed intended for laying ducks.

Housing

Ducks are ground nest builders, so they will not jump up to use elevated nest boxes. Give them structures on the ground in the run or on the floor of their coop. Things like plastic tubs turned on their side, plastic pet carriers, or small dog houses make great structures for nesting spots. 

Ducks can sometimes be stubborn about going into their coop at night. You may want to try to "train" them into going in by creating a treat habit at sunset. Ducks will sleep outside of you let them, but may be more exposed to predators if allowed to stay outside overnight.

Because ducks are extremely messy with their water and have different feed requirements, we recommend keeping ducks and chickens in separate coops and runs.