Methods of Feeding Ducks

THE common recommendation for feeding ducks is that the ration be fed as a moist mash. Lee (1932) states that “all duck rations are fed as a moist mash.” Horton (1932) says that “the duck is quite particular in that it wants a mash that sticks together fairly well.” Pardee (1930) recommends that “all feeds for ducks and ducklings should be fed moist (crumbly) but not sloppy.” He states that the ducks’ bills “are so constructed that it is difficult for them to pick up small grain so it is necessary to moisten the ground grain and form it into lumps or have it crumbly so they can readily pick it up.” According to the different recommendations the ducklings should be given this moist mash four or five times daily during the first week, four times daily until three or four weeks old, and then three times daily until marketed. . . .