m1ssy Posted July 27, 2014 Share Posted July 27, 2014 Hello fellow duck lovers. Our 2 (10 week old) Campbell ducks joined the family 7 days ago, we have loved having them but it has been quite a challenging week (Mainly, as we were a bit misinformed about the space that they needed, the expense and the amount of damage they can do to the garden). Anyway, we didn't want to part with them so we are well on our way to making space for them at the bottom of the garden and have ordered a larger run which will be delivered on Wednesday. I would be really grateful if anyone can answer these questions: 1) Do we need to buy grit for ducks ? - The ducks are currently on a grassed area but when we move them they will be on a solid surface with no soil / grass available. Although we intend to bring them to the top of the garden at the weekends (Our garden is vertical and can be quite steep). Can you also tell us when to give them grit and how much? 2) Can ducks climb steps? If so, does anyone know how high they can step up? 3) Should you use wood chippings. bark chippings/ or the shavings in a run? We have a house which we were told to have shavings in, however our run will be about 3x4x2 (Omlet walk in run). What do we fill the run with? We have read conflicting stories about ducks eating bark chippings and wood chippings and this being fatal but then the advantages that these need to be replaced less often?? 4) What treats do ducks enjoy? Do i need to hang these up from a piece of string or just leave them on the run floor? Our ducks seem to enjoy ferns that are growing out the walls but don't seem to be too bothered when I have put apples on the floor? 5) Is there anything I can put in a run which they will enjoy? Keep them occupied? Sorry, rather alot of questions but we want them to be happy and feel like one of the family We'd really appreciate it if anyone has any answers / tips. Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chortle Chook Posted July 29, 2014 Share Posted July 29, 2014 I think it is a while since you posted but I do hope you are enjoying your now. They can be such characters and get very friendly. 1) Do we need to buy grit for ducks ? - I admit I'm not sure about this one but haven't put separate grit out as mine seem to get theirs from grubbing in the borders. I think perhaps all birds are supposed to have grit. 2) Can ducks climb steps? No - their legs are just not correctly placed vis a vis their chests to enable them to make that step up motion. They need ramps or strategically placed stones (which my ducks seem to roll off ) 3) Should you use wood chippings. bark chippings/ or the shavings in a run? I would suggest a small pea shingle. That's what I have and my ducks seem to really like grubbing in it. 4) What treats do ducks enjoy? Mine love meal worms, pasta (chopped and floated on their water) and fresh spinach leaves, again chopped and floated on their water. 5) Is there anything I can put in a run which they will enjoy? Keep them occupied? A kiddies sandpit / paddling pool from Argos filled with water. A bamboo plant to give them shade and rest under. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
m1ssy Posted July 29, 2014 Author Share Posted July 29, 2014 Thanks very much, thats really useful advice. I couldnt help but chuckle as we have a very large invasive bamboo plant next to the run which we usually want to stop spreading . This weekends plan will to be a build few ramps for them. Thanks again. M1ssy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chortle Chook Posted July 30, 2014 Share Posted July 30, 2014 Do you have chickens or can you borrow someone's chickens, Missy? If so that would be your bamboo plant sorted. They love the leaves and will eat all the emerging shoots and strip the stems at chicken hight leaving the nice bare bamboo canes towards the bottom. See mine Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
