Simply Quacktastic!
1.
Do duck eggs taste different than chicken eggs?
2.
Do you need a pond to have ducks?
3.
Aren’t ducks messy?
Some Interesting Facts
1.
The fat content of duck eggs is higher which makes baked goods richer, and some bakers even say fluffier. The egg also has a larger yolk. Their eggs are an exciting option for the adverturous foodie. They taste slightly richer and weigh slightly more (on average) than chicken eggs. In addition to this, people that are allergic to chicken eggs can usually enjoy duck eggs.
2.
No. While ducks LOVE water it isn’t neccessary for them to have a pond. They do need to have access to fresh water that is deep enough for them to dunk their heads in and rinse out their nostils. Usually a small 4-5 gallon bucket is sufficient.
3.
Absolutely! They love to play, bathe, and even mate in water. Deciding on the best placement for any water source is best done – BEFORE – you get your new flock. Keep in mind that wherever there is a lot of water, there will be mud.
Before You Take the Plunge!
Whether you are raising waterfowl as pets or for commerce, they can be an exciting adventure. Ducks are naturally resilient and can have very distinct personalities depending on the breed that you choose. The most important thing to keep in mind is that ducks love water….and I mean LOVE water. So, be prepared, check with online duck groups and read all you can before you take the plunge. It will make your journey much less stressful in the long run.
Ducks are generally not prone to sickness like other poultry. Spending time to research the different breeds of duck, and your specific expectations before you jump in, will give you a head start on enjoying the journey. While ducks are hardier than chickens and can handle colder weather like a champ, they do need a place to get out of the sun in summer and the wind during winter.
“Be like a duck. Calm on the surface, but always paddling like the dickens underneath”
– Michael Caine