Raising ducks brings us so much joy. Each duck has a different personality and they are very interactive. When you home raise them, you control what they eat and their good health improves the flavor and nutritional value of their duck eggs. Raising ducks also supports an ethical, ecologically responsible, and sustainable food source. Besides, let’s face it, ducks are cute!
Metzer Farms, is a local, responsible breeder and some of their ducklings can cost up to $48 each. The expenses mount up because it takes nearly a year for them to begin laying. Nonetheless, a lot of farmers think it’s worthwhile to guarantee a strong, diverse duck population and the availability of high-quality eggs.
Benefits of Raising Ducks for Eggs
- Ducks are hardy: Compared to hens, ducks are more disease-resistant.
- Longer laying lifespan: Unlike chickens, who usually stop producing after two to three years, ducks can lay eggs for five to nine years.
- Better egg production in winter: Ducks may continue to lay throughout the winter with minimal light supplementation, whereas chickens drastically slow down during the colder months.
- Sustainable & eco-friendly: Ducks naturally control pests in fields and gardens by foraging for insects, weeds, and snails.