Ducks are fun, affectionate, and increasingly popular as backyard pets. Whether you are raising ducklings, adopting new ducks, or caring for an existing flock, providing them with a nutritious and balanced diet is essential for their health. Many people assume ducks can eat anything, but the truth is that their diet should mimic what they would eat in the wild—a mix of grains, vegetables, insects, and protein.
This guide will help you understand what ducks need to thrive, the best types of feed, and which foods to avoid.
What Should Ducks Eat
Ducks are omnivores, meaning they enjoy a variety of foods, including:
- Leafy greens and vegetables
- Fruits and berries
- Grains and seeds
- Insects, worms, and small fish
Since backyard ducks may not always have access to these foods, it’s important to supplement their diet with a high-quality poultry feed.
Choosing the Right Feed for Your Ducks
A well-balanced duck diet should include:
- protein – essential for muscle growth and feather development
- niacin (vitamin B3) – important for bone and joint health. Ducks require twice as much niacin as chickens
- calcium – necessary for laying ducks to produce strong eggshells
- vitamins and minerals – needed for overall health and energy
Types of Feed for Ducks
- all flock feed – formulated for mixed poultry flocks and contains niacin
- layer feed – designed for laying ducks and includes extra calcium for eggshell strength
- pellets vs. crumbles – pellets are easier to digest and reduce the risk of choking
Ducks should be fed twice a day, with a slightly smaller meal in the morning and a larger meal in the evening.
Special Nutritional Needs for Ducklings
Ducklings require different nutrition than adult ducks. They need:
- high protein (20% or more) for the first two weeks for proper growth
- lower protein (16-18%) after two weeks to prevent rapid weight gain
- additional niacin (25-30 mg per pound of feed) to support bone development
Do not feed ducklings medicated chick starter feed, as they eat more than chicks and can overdose on the medication. If using regular chick feed, supplement with brewer’s yeast for extra niacin.
Safe Treats for Ducks
Ducks love snacks, and offering healthy treats can provide both nutrition and mental enrichment. Some safe treats include:
- leafy greens (lettuce, kale, spinach)
- peas, corn, and chopped fruits
- oats, rice, and cooked grains
- mealworms, grubs, and earthworms
Foods Ducks Should Not Eat
Some foods are unsafe for ducks and should be avoided, including:
- citrus fruits – interfere with calcium absorption
- nightshades (unripe tomatoes, eggplants, raw potatoes) – contain toxic alkaloids
- dairy products – difficult for ducks to digest
- bread and crackers – provide no nutritional value
- sugary and salty foods – cause obesity and other health issues
- moldy food – can lead to serious illness
Additional Feeding Tips
- always provide fresh, clean water near food to help ducks swallow and digest properly
- use a sturdy, low-feeding bowl to prevent tipping and waste
- store feed in a dry, cool place to prevent mold growth
- provide grit or small pebbles to help ducks grind food in their digestive system
Transitioning Ducklings to Adult Feed
At around 20 weeks of age, ducklings can be gradually switched to an adult layer feed if they are laying eggs. If not, they can continue on all flock feed. Transition slowly by mixing the new feed with their current feed over 7 to 10 days.
FAQ’s
Q.1 What Should I Feed My Backyard Ducks?
Ducks need a balanced diet that includes an all flock feed or layer feed (for laying ducks), along with fresh vegetables, grains, insects, and a good source of niacin.
Q.2 Can Ducks Eat Chicken Feed?
Ducks can eat chicken feed, but they require more niacin than chickens. If using regular poultry feed, supplement it with brewer’s yeast or choose a feed specifically formulated for ducks.
Q.3 What Foods Should Ducks Avoid?
Ducks should not eat citrus fruits, nightshades (unripe tomatoes, eggplants, raw potatoes), dairy products, bread, sugary foods, salty snacks, or moldy food, as these can cause serious health issues.
Q.4 How Often Should I Feed My Ducks?
Feed ducks twice a day, offering a smaller meal in the morning and a larger meal in the evening. Ducklings should have access to food throughout the day.
Q.5 Do Ducklings Need A Special Diet?
Yes, ducklings need higher protein (20% or more) in their first two weeks, then 16-18% protein after that. They also require extra niacin for strong bones, so ensure their feed contains enough niacin or supplement with brewer’s yeast.