Can Ducks Eat Stone Fruit? Yes, It’s Safe With Precautions!

Hard-seeded or pits inside fruits can cause a problem for ducks when consumed. The fruits with a hard seed or pit inside are known as stone fruit. And that pit is precisely the problem when ducks are eating stone fruits.

So, can ducks eat stone fruit? Yes, ducks can eat stone fruits but it’s safer when you remove the seeds or pits before serving. Don’t let the duck show their omnivore nature on it. They’ll choke on it. However, if given properly, they’ll have the best time.

In this discussion, we will present some stone fruits you can offer alongside the ones we discourage feeding. So, this is gonna be an ideal guideline when your preference is to feed stone fruits to ducks.

Can Ducks Eat Stone Fruit? Edible But Not Recommended!

Ducks have diverse diets, but when it comes to the safety matter, be a little picky, please. If you just take the pits from these fruits, there is no problem recommending them.

But in general, it’s unsafe as most of us forget to feed without seeds. And it ultimately causes gastrointestinal issues and choking trouble.

On the other hand, sugar in stone fruits has fructose, glucose, sucrose, and other saccharides. If the sugar level is high, ducks get triggered by different health issues such as:

• Diabetes
• Obesity.

So, if you get some for the feathery friend, please offer a moderate amount. And it’s a wise part if you be careful about the potential risks of feeding such stony fruits.

List Of 7 Stone Fruits To Feed Ducks

We all know ducks are omnivores. They’ll pick anything they get while foraging and looking for food sources. Whether it’s apples, berries, or grapes. 

But why do we become picky about them? Because stone fruits are a little risky! Seeds or Pits in stone fruits can be a life-threatener for ducks.

Therefore, we have included a list of safe and unsafe stone fruits list. Where you’ll see their benefits and potential risks. And don’t miss the nutritional value before feeding any fruits.

1. Cherries – Safe Without Pits

Cherries, as a stone fruit in US Michigan, are quite popular. So, how about feeding some pieces to the backyard Mallards or Muscovies? My point of view is it’s a wise choice for ducks. But think about moderation!

Highlight: Cherry has another level of nutrients that contribute to making ducks look shiny.

Benefits: Whether it’s your poultry farm or backyard for ducks, cherries are safe when given without seeds or pits. The cherry fleshes are enough to nourish the ducks. Let’s see how the fruit contributes!

• Cherries contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that work for better immunity, vision, and skin health and fight against infections.
• Vitamin B6 contributes to ensuring improved metabolism and protein along with muscle growth.
• Cherries have low fat, so the weight will remain in control.
• The fiber in cherries keeps digestion well.
• I found feeding cherry fleshes will fight to prevent cell damage due to antioxidants.
• For better feather quality, a decent amount of cherries is perfect.
• Hypertension, blood pressure, and heart disease get lessened by having potassium.

Potential Risks: In a world of plenty of benefits, some potential risks are there if you feed cherries. Check what those are!

• I discovered cyanide glycosides in cherry pits, so ensure you remove it before feeding.
• Whether large-size cherries or seeds can potentially cause a choking hazard.
• Don’t overfeed them. It causes digestion trouble or vomiting.

Here, the video may help you see how ducks enjoy cherries.

Read More: Can Ducks Eat Cherries

2. Mangoes – Can Be A Part Of Avian Diet

Mangoes for Fowls! Can Ducks Eat Mangoes? I would say be careful if the ducks are quacking over such stony fruit. There is a high sugar intake. 

But what if we give only a small amount? It’s a safe move! Before feeding, ensure it’s ripe and soft. Much better if you remove the pit.

Benefits: Now, let’s see how mangoes will nourish your duck with plenty of health benefits.

• Vitamins A and C usually contribute to improving the immune system. 
• You may see ducks are having more energy when they get some mangoes.

Potential Risks: We find mangoes safe for them, but some potential risks are there. As it’s stony fruit, keep some facts in mind.

• Large mango pieces or accidentally eating seeds will cause choking trouble.
• High sugar intake causes weight gain or obesity. So, consider the sugar amount!
• Some of the ducks may have allergic reactions to mangoes. Please observe!

Read more: Ducks Eating Mangoes As A Treat

3. Peaches – Edible Juicy Fruit

You may prefer to offer some floral sweetness, but is duck safe when they consume stony peaches? Same reply for the American backyard duck caretaker. Ducks can eat but without seeds. Because it’s poisonous! 

With plenty of nutritional benefits and some potential drawbacks, the duck will eventually be good with peaches. But offer it as an occasional food source.

Benefits: Check the good facts in peaches that contribute to feathered friends’ health.

• Vitamin A in peaches keeps the eyesight, immune system, and development well.
• Vitamin C, as an antioxidant, shields the body from cell damage and improves the immune system. Vitamin E also contributes here.
• Calories in peaches work like rocket fuel in ducks’ bodies to keep them strong.
• Fiber power will keep the duck’s belly and tummy in good condition. So there will be no constipation!

Potential Risks: What about the negative side of feeding peaches?

• Usually, Amygdalin breaks down into cyanide, which is toxic.
• If given with seeds, ducks will potentially have choking hazards.

Get More Info: Can Ducks Eat Peaches

4. Plums – Seedless Is Safe!

Although omnivore ducks eat anything, not everything is safe about plums! But some small pieces won’t hurt them without the seeds. What I mean is you can feed plums occasionally! However, the upcoming facts will clarify more.

Benefits: The answers we are giving may confuse you. So, let us clear it up again! 

Any stone fruits will be safe without the stones in the center. Now, take a look at the things that are good in plums.

• Feeding plums will ensure healthy digestion.
• Plums will keep the duck hydrated for a high water intake, especially during summer.
• The micronutrient vitamin C ensures a better immunity system.
• Antioxidants in plums help to remove the toxins in ducks’ bodies and save them from free radicals that damage cells.
• Also, vitamin E works to make feathers condition well.

Potential Risks: Feeding plums provides many benefits, but the usual issues should be mentioned. Like:

• Overfeeding causes digestion problems.
• You’ll find sensitivity or allergic reactions when they eat plums.
• The common trouble is choking hazards due to seeds or large-size fleshes.

Discover more: Can Ducks Eat Plums

5. Apricots – Another Stony But Edible

Ducks won’t deny anything you feed, but you shouldn’t when it’s stone fruit. Although we didn’t find any toxic thing for ducks, the stone is to blame. 

But apricot skin, flesh, and dried forms are completely safe when feeding a small amount. However, I suggest mashing it or chopping it into a manageable size.

Highlight: Apricots are particularly given to help the digestion tract, where they contain soluble and half-insoluble fiber.

Benefits: Personally, I don’t prefer stone fruits for them. But in general, they can go for it when you take off the stones. And the benefits are also there.

• Vitamin A keeps the integrity of mucous membranes and skin which ensures healthy immunity. It also keeps the bone condition good.
• Vitamin C is the healer of wounds.
• The fiber in fruits like apricots will keep the digestion system better.
• Potassium won’t be behind since it works for fluid balance, muscle, and nerve functioning.

Potential Risks: Unhealthy facts about feeding apricots are:

• You should be aware of the existence of tannin.
• Apricot pits have cyanide, so avoid it.
• Only a limited amount is requested, or they’ll surely face various health difficulties.

More detail: Can Ducks Eat Apricots

6. Dates – Have Benefits But Avoid It!

You may think dates are tough to find in America, but it’s a myth. If you want to give some dates to ducks, check the nearby grocery stores. They have it!

But the fact is, without seeds, dates are good for ducks, geese, or even chickens. And to let you know, dates have high sugar, and they don’t need it!

Highlight: Dates can play the role of refined sugars. Not necessary for waterfowl!

Benefits: You may be confused; if dates are highly sugary, what benefits are there for ducks? Check below!

• Vitamin B6 and minerals such as potassium can contribute to keeping overall health well.
• Same as other stone fruits! Fiber content will keep the digestion good.
• Antioxidants that neutralize hazardous free radicals.

Potential Risks: Now, what about the drawbacks? Here are those:

• Obesity or becoming overweight due to high sugar levels. Therefore, a decent amount is to be noted for waterfowl.
• Digestion problem for excessive consumption.
• Be careful about the seeds or choking trouble in ducks may be seen.

Read More: Can Ducks Eat Dates

7. Nectarine – Good Without Pits!

With a tangy and sweet flavor, nectarine, the peach of variety, can be a part of a duck’s snack list. But what about seeds and pits inside? Just remove it and feed it!

Highlight: High in insoluble fiber but ideal for ducks!

Benefits: Nectarine, as a supplementary part, can be a good booster for the ducks in the backyard. Here is how such stone fruits benefit the duck.

• Contains high insoluble fiber for gut health and keeps the LDL level under control.
• A good amount of vitamin will surely ensure eyesight and immunity, and the circulatory system remains better.
• Antioxidants like beta-carotene, along with plant-based polyphenolic compounds, can improve immunity and other common bird diseases.
• Carbs will also keep the overall health good.

Potential Risks: While offering some nectarine to the ducks, ensure you keep the potential risks in mind.

• Nectarine is high in sugar, so less feeding is necessary.
• Seeds or pits are risky for ducks as they contain cyanide that can cause suffocation. So, the fruits must be seedless!
• Overfeeding nectarine can cause malnutrition or obesity.
• It can cause tooth decay and digestion problems when they eat such stony fruits.

Read More: Can ducks eat nectarines

Nutritional Properties Of Various Stone Fruits

To give you more detail, we find adding a nutritional value table more friendly. Stone fruits have a significant amount of nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fiber, fat, and more. The contributions came from USDA Food Data.

Stone Fruits Nutrients(100g)	Cherries	Mangoes	Peaches	Plums	Apricots	Dates
Water	82.2 g	83.5 g	88.9 g	87.2 g	86.4 g	20.5 g
Protein	1.06 g	0.82 g	0.91 g	0.7 g	1.4 g	2.45 g
Fat	0.2 g	0.38 g	0.25 g	0.28 g	0.39 g	0.39 g
Carbs	16 g	15 g	9.54 g	11.4 g	11.1 g	11.4 g
Fiber	2.1 g	1.6 g	1.5 g	1.4 g	2 g	8 g
Sugars	12.8 g	13.7 g	8.39 g	9.92 g	9.24 g	63.4 g
Vitamin C, B-6, and A	7, 0.049 mg and 3 µg	36.4, 0.119 mg and 54 µg	6.6, 0.025 mg and 16 µg	9.5, 0.029 mg and 17 µg	10, 0.054 mg and 96 µg	0.4 mg Vitmin C only.

Other Fruit Types For Duck’s:

• Can You Feed Duck’s Melons
• Feeding Berries to Ducks

Can Baby Ducks Eat Stone Fruit? Certainly Not!

If the adult one gets into trouble, baby ducks surely will be more in danger if they eat stone fruits. Any stone fruits we talked about are not suitable for ducklings.

Particularly, the restriction is for the potential choking trouble. And we also know they have sensitive digestion systems.

But when they get older, they become safe in a moderate amount. But ensure you gradually introduce stone fruit flesh without seeds.

Ducks Consumed Stone Fruit With Pits Accidentally: What Should I Do?

Ducks are stubborn birds, so they may not hear you. They will eat stone fruits or even other foods while they forage.

But as an aware duck owner, we need to keep our eyes open. If they accidentally consume stone fruits with seeds or pits, observe how they react. They don’t even know they are calling danger!

However, we have some solutions for you!

• If ducks excessively consume fruits, meet the vet immediately for care or medication.
• The risk of choking hazards lessens when you give some water.

Recommended Reading: Fruits for Ducks

Stone Fruit Consideration: What Veterinarian Or Avian Experts Say?

Ornithologists, Avian experts, or veterinarians will give caution for feeding stone fruits. I, as a poultry lover and researcher, think the same.

You must follow some facts I already mentioned above. What I mean is offering occasionally and giving fruit flesh rather than seeds. But not all seeds are uncomfortable for ducks to consume. 

I forgot to mention that you need to check the sugar level of such fruits as well. As sugar is unnecessary, we still give some!

Fleshy Drupes Feeding Practices: How To Feed?

While feeding stone fruits like cherries, peaches, or any other one, you need a proper way. And I am providing the guideline to you now!

How Much To Offer

Feeding stone fruits has some potential risks that we already mentioned. So, please keep a moderate amount. For stone fruit, one or two small sliced flesh is enough. Maybe other people will say to give it weekly, but my point of view is once or twice per month is good.

Steps Of Feeding

Now, it’s Time to share the steps of feeding. Hope it’ll look easier for every duck owner.

1. Wash The Fruits: Clean the fruits first to remove the chemicals or pesticides in them.
2. Remove Seeds or Pits: It’s a big priority! Seeds or pits may cause choking hazards or gastrointestinal trouble. Also, it may contain toxic elements. Therefore, we suggest removing it before feeding.
3. Slicing Into Small Pieces: Keep the manageable pieces! It makes ducks’ consumption easier.
4. Raw Fruits: Bring some fresh fruit! And don’t feed overripen or canned forms.
5. Moderation Is Key: Ensure it’s a tiny portion of fruit. Ducks are only comfortable with fruits when it’s given as a treat.

How To Know Ducks Enjoying Stone Fruit?

It’s easy to monitor whether ducks are enjoying stone fruits or not. I saw them quacking slowly and bubbling their head when they got the fruits as their occasional treat.

You may notice they’re looking for fruits here and there. What we want to clarify is their willingness to say if stone fruits are okay or not. Most often, I find their unquenchable thirst for fruits in the backyard or even in the wild.

FAQs

For more information to spread for the backyard caretaker, we have some frequently asked questions. Here are the queries and answers!

Final Words

We discussed a lot about can ducks eat stone fruit or not. Although it’s crystal clear ducks can, I don’t like it. When I see ducks quacking for fruits, my heart melts, but not for giving stone fruits. Because of the sugar level and seeds that cause choking hazards.

But if you prefer to give some, you may follow the tips we mentioned. All of them are authentic, and the data we added about the nutritional properties is 100% accurate. Make sure you check it before offering the small slices.

Sources And References:

• https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/stone-fruits
• https://extension.usu.edu/yardandgarden/research/peaches-in-the-garden