I am interested in getting some ducks but want to do some research before i decided completely.

what are the small breed called?

How many is an ideal number to keep so they are happy?

Males or females or mixed groups?

What size area for is best to keep them in?

What bedding do you use in there house?

any other advice you can give?

When i enquired at a pet shop about some ducklings they siad i should keep them indoors for the first week and feed on chick crumb but iv read that when there older they can choke on this so pellet feed is better? what is the right information?

Thanks

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RIP Ben & Jerry

Hi I have answered your questions under your original text:

what are the small breed called?
A. I think you mean call ducks, these are very noisy, not good in urban areas.

How many is an ideal number to keep so they are happy?
At least 2, never one alone.

Males or females or mixed groups?
1 Male to at least 3 females, females alone, or males alone. If you keep lone females they will call for a mate during pairing season. VERY noisy.

What size area for is best to keep them in?
I have a 1500 liter pond in a predator proof garden that is 25m x 25m for 8 ducks.

What bedding do you use in there house?
Wood shavings from the pet store or straw. Keep in mind it gets very dirty very quickly and the waste piles up! Needs refreshing every day and cleaning out at least once a week.

any other advice you can give?
Where do you start, there is SO much advice to give. Firstly can you keep them safe from a fox? They need predator proof fencing and they need putting away every night in a secure duck house and letting out every morning when it gets light. There are lots of websites and books for people starting with ducks. They live a long time (up to ten years) and need a lot of work, but are the most rewarding pets ever!

When i enquired at a pet shop about some ducklings they siad i should keep them indoors for the first week and feed on chick crumb but iv read that when there older they can choke on this so pellet feed is better? what is the right information?
Try not to buy ducklings from a pet shop, buy from a recognized breeder, I can help you with this, there should be one in your area. They need specific protein levels in their food at specific times in their growth or they will develop deformities. They have chick crumbs (non medicated) then growers pellets, then maintenance/layers pellets. They also need shell and grit and benefit from green stuff.

PM me if you need any more advice!

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