Newly hatched & Unsexed Ducklings About the Breed: Pekin Ducks Pekin ducks are a classic, all-purpose breed known for their friendly nature, fast growth, and excellent meat and egg production. With their bright white feathers, orange bills, and upright stance, they’re a charming and practical addition to any backyard or small farm. These ducks are great layers, producing a steady supply of large white eggs, and are also highly valued as a top meat breed due to their rapid growth and tender, flavorful meat. Pekins are calm, hardy, and easy to care for, making them ideal for beginners and experienced keepers alike. They enjoy foraging, splashing in water, and socialising with both people and other birds. Provide them with clean water, quality feed, and dry shelter, and you’ll have happy, productive ducks year-round. Raising Pekin Ducklings: A Quick Guide Pekin ducklings are friendly, fast-growing, and relatively easy to raise, making them a popular choice for beginners and experienced keepers alike. Here’s what you need to know to get started: 1. Brooder Setup: Keep ducklings in a warm, dry brooder with plenty of ventilation but no drafts. Start with a temperature of around 32–35°C (90–95°F) for the first week, then gradually reduce by 3°C (5°F) each week until they’re fully feathered (around 6 weeks). Use a heat lamp safely positioned to give ducklings space to move away if too warm. 2. Bedding: Use absorbent bedding like straw, wood shavings, or hemp bedding. Avoid slippery surfaces to prevent leg issues. Change bedding regularly to keep the area clean and dry. 3. Food & Water: Feed a high-quality, waterfowl or non-medicated chick starter crumble with at least 18–20% protein for the first 3 weeks. After 3 weeks, transition to a grower feed with lower protein (around 16–18%). Provide fresh, clean water at all times—ducklings love to dunk their heads! Use a shallow water container to prevent drowning but allow easy access. Avoid feed or water contamination by changing water frequently and cleaning feeders. 4. Space & Exercise: Ducklings need enough space to move around, stretch, and explore. Crowding can cause stress and illness. Once they’re a few weeks old, supervised outdoor time with access to water for swimming is great for their health and development. 5. Health & Care: Monitor for signs of illness like lethargy, diarrhea, or respiratory issues. Keep their living area clean to prevent infections. As they grow, introduce them gradually to outdoor conditions and natural forage. 6. Social & Temperament: Pekins are social birds and do best in groups. They’re generally calm and friendly with people. With proper care, Pekin ducklings grow quickly and will be ready for outdoor housing and water access within 6–8 weeks.
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