Can Ducks Eat Oranges? Is It Too Risky for Ducks?

No, ducks shouldn’t eat oranges as this citrus fruit has a high acid content. This prevents calcium absorption into the body. As a result, the female ducks can lay soft-shelled eggs. Plus, it will have problems with the bones and joints.

To put a stronger base, the levels of citric acid and Ascorbic acid are high in oranges. The first one is also known as a good source of Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system in pet ducks. It might sound like orange is beneficial for birds like ducks. But it’s not.

Read till the end to learn more about the risks of feeding oranges to ducks.

Can Ducks Eat Oranges? Is it Safe for Ducks?

The taste of oranges can be tempting for many. And it is packed with a wide variety of essential nutrients for ducks. But the problem with oranges is the high acid content.

Due to the abundance of citric acid, calcium absorption in ducks will be hindered. Calcium is an essential nutrient for ducks. It can result in a lack of calcium absorption in their bodies. Lack of calcium can induce multiple problems. Suppressed follicle selection is one of them.

If you feed even a small piece of orange to your feathered friends or even wild ducks, you never know it can be inflammatory in the first place. So, ducks will suffer from bloating. And as the water content is also high in oranges, it can cause diarrhea.

Anyway, I can’t say it’s one of the favorite treats for ducks. So, do not even consider it as a tasty treat for ducks. Let alone keeping it in their daily diet.

Instead, give duck feed pellets and also a variety of foods for ducks, like fresh fruits or seeds such as sweet potatoes and sunflower seeds. Let them forage to find natural food sources, fresh water, and healthy food.

However, a tiny amount of oranges might not be that harmful to them if given on rare occasions, such as once a month. But why are you so eager to give oranges to your backyard birds despite knowing so many drawbacks?

4 Reasons Why Ducks Should Not Eat Oranges!

Ducks shouldn’t eat oranges for multiple reasons. Check them below.

1. Citric Acid Causes Calcium Deficiency

If a duck intakes too much citric acid, typically from citrus fruits, the acid will prevent calcium from being absorbed into the body. Calcium is important for your pet ducks to keep their bone health good and ensure proper development in ducks. It is also an essential element of the eggshell. 

As effects on calcium absorption deficiency, your domesticated ducks won’t have strong bones and joints. Stiffness or swells can also occur.

It will affect eggshells by shell biomineralization and causing thin-shelled eggs. This acid can cause stomach pains and acid reflux as well.

2. Orange Can Cause Heartburn or Diarrhea

As acidic substances cause heart problems in humans. It also can cause heartburn in ducks. An acidic fruit affects the health of your backyard ducks in the same way. So, eating oranges will cause heart failure, inflammation, or bloating. 

Besides, diarrhea is a common consequence of backyard birds eating too many watery types of fruit like oranges. So, orange isn’t a healthy treat for ducks, for sure.

3. High Levels of Sugar Leads Ducks to Obesity

Besides, oranges are acidic. Although not as high as citrus fruit come with. However, still, it isn’t a good idea to feed any types of oranges to ducks. In addition, feeding high-sugar fruit to ducks will lead ducks to obesity. It can also cause diabetes and weaken the immune system.

4. Orange Peel Has Cellulose

As the acid content is lower in the peel, you might ask, can ducks eat orange peels? No, orange peel isn’t good for ducks, either. The peel has tough cellulose that is too hard for the ducks’. They will have digestive issues as a consequence.

Do Ducks Like Orange?

It’s difficult to say whether they like it or not. Ducks might like oranges or any other juicy fruits. If you offer them oranges, they might eat with great interest even though it’s not an excellent fruit for them. 

But that doesn’t mean you should feed oranges to them. Be careful about the associated risks, and don’t feed oranges to ducks.

2 Notable Nutritional Benefits of Oranges for Ducks

Despite the risks, small quantities of oranges might be a nutritious treat for ducks. Before we state how oranges might benefit ducks, look at the nutritional chart of oranges according to the data collected from USDA.

Feeding oranges to ducks can offer several health benefits as part of their diet. However, it’s important to note that while ducks can consume oranges, they should be given in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Now, check some potential health benefits:

1. Vitamin C for the Immune System

Oranges are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for ducks. Vitamin C is crucial in boosting the immune system, promoting healthy skin, and aiding in iron absorption.

2. Antioxidants for Oxidative Stress

Oranges contain antioxidants such as flavonoids and carotenoids, which can help protect ducks from oxidative stress. Antioxidants play a role in maintaining overall health and may contribute to disease prevention.

3. Proper Hydration

Oranges have a high water content, which can contribute to hydration in ducks. Proper hydration is vital for their overall well-being, especially during warmer weather.

4. Dietary Fiber for Digestion

Oranges contain dietary fiber, which can benefit the digestive health of ducks. Fiber aids in maintaining a healthy digestive system and can help prevent issues like constipation.

5. Natural Sugars for Energy Boost

Oranges contain natural sugars, which can provide a quick energy boost for ducks. This can be particularly helpful during increased activity or in colder weather when additional energy may be needed.

Here’s one thing: Since I have discussed benefits, do not consider giving oranges to your ducks. It is a citrus fruit and is too risky for your quacking birds. The risks it provides are far more than the benefits it may give. So, say no to oranges for ducks.

Related Reads: Can Ducks Eat Grapefruit

Can Baby Ducks Eat Oranges?

As the orange contains plenty of essential nutrients for the sound growth of ducks, many might think that baby ducks can consume oranges.

But can ducklings eat oranges? No, the benefits are overturned with the risks, whether ducks or ducklings. So, ducklings shouldn’t eat oranges because the risks are much greater than the range of benefits.

If ducklings eat oranges, they will grow with weaker bones. When they become adults, they will have diseases like rickets. And they might produce poor shell quality. So, baby ducks shouldn’t eat oranges.

Different Parts, Types, and Forms of Orange for Ducks

It’s important to be aware of the various parts, types, and forms of oranges that can be given to them. Here’s a breakdown:

Can ducks eat orange flesh?

Yes, ducks can eat orange flesh, and it can be a nutritious and tasty addition to their diet. Orange flesh is a good source of vitamins, especially vitamin C, and can provide ducks with hydration due to its water content.

Is orange peel good for ducks?

Orange peel can also be given to ducks, but it’s important to offer it in moderation. Ducks may nibble on small pieces of orange peel, but be sure to wash the orange thoroughly to remove any pesticides or contaminants.

Do ducks eat dried orange peels?

Ducks can eat dried orange peels, but it’s essential to provide them in small, manageable pieces without any additives like preservatives or sweeteners.

How about frozen oranges for ducks?

Frozen oranges can be offered to ducks as a refreshing treat, especially during hot weather. Freezing can add a novel texture, and ducks may enjoy pecking at the cold slices.

What if I share canned oranges with ducks?

Canned oranges can be shared with ducks, but it’s crucial to choose options with no added sugars or artificial preservatives. Drain any syrup and rinse the oranges before offering them to the ducks.

Is orange seeds safe for ducks?

It’s advisable to remove orange seeds before feeding them to ducks. Orange seeds can pose a choking hazard, and while ducks might eat them in small amounts without issues, it’s safer to err on the side of caution and provide seedless orange slices.

Important Note: Be it an orange or any other fruit, maintaining a moderate amount of fruit for ducks is necessary. And when you follow the rule, you can also offer –

• Mandarin
• Tangerines
• Navel
• Valencia
• Blood
• Seville
• Cara Cara Oranges.

Conclusion

Oranges aren’t that beneficial for ducks. In fact, it causes some serious problems, such as calcium deficiency, diarrhea, and bloating. So, your ducks shouldn’t eat this citrus fruit in any form, whether raw, cooked, canned, or dried.

Ducks shouldn’t eat oranges in any form, whether raw, cooked, canned, or dried. The rind of oranges or those unhealthy seeds shouldn’t also be fed to ducks because oranges can cause digestive issues. And you must keep from feeding oranges to ducklings as their digestive system is more sensitive. Choose your ducks’ dietary requirements carefully to ensure healthy growth and make your backyard friends happy.

Sources & References:

• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1751731120000907
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26385336/