Brooding in duckBrooding of Ducklings • Brooding period: From day-old to 4–5 weeks of age, depending on weather conditions. • Temperature: o Start at 32–35°C in the first week. o Reduce by 2.5–3°C per week until it matches ambient temperature (~25°C). • Use brooder guards in a circular shape to keep ducklings close to the heat source. • Heat sources: Charcoal stoves, gas brooders, infrared bulbs, or kerosene lanterns (ensure good ventilation to avoid fumes). • Provide light for 16–18 hours daily to encourage feeding and reduce piling. • Use dry and absorbent litter like wood shavings, straw, or rice husks (5–8 cm deep); change regularly to avoid wetness. • Ducklings are sensitive to wet litter, which can cause infections like footpad dermatitis. • Provide low, clean waterers to avoid drowning and wetting; shallow trays or nipple drinkers are ideal. • Feed a starter mash with 20–22% protein and adequate energy. • Introduce feed immediately using flat trays or newspapers for the first few days. • Provide vitamins (especially A, D, and E) in water to boost immunity. • Maintain good ventilation to reduce ammonia build-up and respiratory problems. • Ensure biosecurity: disinfect the brooding area before stocking, restrict visitor access, and isolate sick birds. • Ducklings tend to spill water, so it's important to regularly dry or replace wet litter Brooding in duck Brooding of Ducklings
Brooding period: From day-old to 4–5 weeks of age, depending on weather conditions.
Temperature:
Start at 32–35°C in the