Duck Feed: The right nutrition for runner ducks and domestic ducks

Duck Feed: What runner ducks and domestic ducks need

Ducks eat differently from chickens. They prefer to take their feed together with water, they dabble, chatter and search the run for slugs and worms. A suitable duck feed is tailored to their needs and suits runner ducks, Pekin ducks, Muscovy ducks and many other breeds. In our range you will find grain mixes, pellets and organic feed for ducks and geese.

Feed and water belong together

Ducks always need water nearby when they eat, because they use it to wash down their food and to clean their nostrils. So place a deep drinker next to the feed trough, one they can dip their whole bill into. Pellets are particularly suitable because they do not fall apart straight away in water and create hardly any dust. Grain is a popular extra and reliably lures the ducks back into their house in the evening.

What else ducks need

Ducks have a higher requirement for niacin than chickens. A good duck feed already covers this, and many keepers also add brewer's yeast. Laying ducks also appreciate oyster shell grit for strong eggshells. Runner ducks in the garden also love to eat grass, slugs and insects. That keeps them busy and adds variety to their daily ration.

Frequently asked questions

Can ducks eat bread?
Bread is not good food for ducks. It fills them up but provides hardly any nutrients and swells in the stomach. Give your ducks duck feed, lettuce or some vegetables as a treat instead.

Can runner ducks eat chicken feed?
For a short time it is not a problem, but it is not ideal as a long-term solution. Chicken feed contains less niacin, and layers feed has too much calcium for drakes. Your runner ducks are better looked after with a proper duck feed.

Do runner ducks really eat slugs?
Yes, runner ducks are well known for eating slugs in the garden. They will not fill up on them, though, so they still need a regular ration of duck feed. It is best to feed them in the evening, so they are hungry for slugs during the day.