Nutrition during winter

[ILoveMyDucks123]

Hi fellow duck lovers,

It's my first winter with ducks and I have 8 ducks and 4 drakes from this spring. I have 3 laying an egg from time to time, but I can almost say they aren't laying.

I currently give them Purina Purinature layena+ and I'm wondering if the food is adapted to their winter needs since they aren't laying.

What are you giving your flock during Canadian winter? I only have access to Purina to my local store and they don't have food specifically for ducks. I heard of some people mixing two types of food, so it is adapted to duck.

 

[arianna7]

Hey there, fellow duck lover!

Congrats on your first winter with your ducks! It sounds like you’ve got a nice little flock with 8 ducks and 4 drakes. Since you mentioned that only 3 of them are laying eggs occasionally, it could be that the food you’re giving them isn’t quite hitting the mark for their winter needs.

You’re currently using Purina Layena+, which is great for laying hens, but ducks have some specific nutritional needs that might not be fully met by that feed. Ducks typically need a higher protein content, especially during the colder months, and they also need more energy to stay warm. So, adding some cracked corn or sunflower seeds to their diet can give them that extra boost they need.

If you can find a duck starter or grower feed at your local store, mixing that with the Layena+ could help balance things out. You might also want to toss in some grains like oats or barley for added energy. And don’t forget about calcium! Providing crushed oyster shells can really help support their egg production.

Make sure they have access to fresh, unfrozen water at all times—it’s super important for their health. Also, giving them a cozy, dry shelter out of the wind and snow will keep them happy during those chilly days.

It’s a good idea to keep an eye on their behavior and feathers. If they seem a bit off or their feathers look rough, it might be time to tweak their diet a bit.

A lot of duck owners in Canada mix different feeds or add supplements to keep their flocks healthy in winter, so don’t hesitate to share tips with local duck communities. Experiment a little and see what your ducks like best. Good luck with your flock this winter, and enjoy those adorable quackers!

 

[HollowOfWisps]

I feed Purina Flock Raiser 20% protein with oyster shells on the side.

 

[ILoveMyDucks123]

I feed Purina Flock Raiser 20% protein with oyster shells on the side.

I thought I should increase their protein intake for winter, but when I asked the person at the local store at my last order, they told me there is no need to. I should have followed my instincts.

Thanks for your reply!

 

[HollowOfWisps]

I thought I should increase their protein intake for winter, but when I asked the person at the local store at my last order, they told me there is no need to. I should have followed my instincts.

Thanks for your reply!

My ducks molts, egg laying, feather quality and overall health increased when I switched them permanently to 20% proteins.

 

[Canadian Wind]

Hi from Eastern Ontario!

I actually feed a duckling starter of 22% protein over the winter. See what's the highest protein you can find. Supplement calcium if laying (mine stopped laying over a month ago) and niacin (nutritional yeast) since you can't get duck specific feed.

Even though I miss having the eggs in winter I prefer them to have that break.

 

[Canadian Wind]

Oh! And I also ALWAYS wet their food!

 

[ILoveMyDucks123]

Oh! And I also ALWAYS wet their food!

Thanks for the good advice! Can I ask why you wet their food?

 

[ILoveMyDucks123]

My ducks molts, egg laying, feather quality and overall health increased when I switched them permanently to 20% proteins.

Would that be a good option?

 

[HollowOfWisps]

Would that be a good option? View attachment 3999885

Yes that would work especially since it is also formulated for ducklings so it will have enough niacin along with the higher protein content.