Do Ducks Eat Grains? Discovering 3 Overfeeding Risks
In the varied diet of ducks, can grain be a nice addition? Poultry livestock, such as chickens, is widely seen to consume a variety of grains, especially in the countryside in America.
But the real question is, do ducks eat grains? Yes, ducks can, but in moderation. Some grains are hard and can cause choking difficulties. Grains are rich in nutrients like minerals, protein, dietary fiber, and vitamins. Intelligently feeding them grains season-wise will offer several benefits to ducks if given as a regular treat.
Now you know the ins and outs shortly. But it is really important to know why it has to be fed in ideal quantity and why it is risky as well. Keep on reading, as I’m gonna write the entire thing as we’re chit-chatting!
Table of Contents
Do Ducks Eat Grains? Yes, But Keep It Balanced!
I’ve already answered the question in the intro. They can be a tasty snack. Now, let’s chat briefly and elaborate on the answer that covers every question you might ask.
Do Ducks Like Grains? Good Food Surely
Not sure. But it’s good for them, surely. See, omnivore birds, like ducks, eat everything, and you don’t need to know whether or not they like it. They’ll literally go crazy over everything they’re given.
Grains are nutritious, can make a great treat for them, and are also a vastly available option. So, consider they like it and feed them in ideal quantity.
See how beautifully a Mallard eating grains on a beautiful day:
Are Grains Safe? Yes, But Not Entirely
Only if given in moderation. Grains have come up with a wide variety of nutrients that are essential for ducks, such as fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. So, what will stop it from becoming a safe food for ducks?
There are some grains that might be bad options for ducks. We will discuss later why and what grains are unsafe for ducks. Till then, please stick with me and keep on exploring!
What If I Feed Grains Everyday?
No significant hamper if you’re aware of how much to feed them. Grains are good in both raw and cooked form for ducks. For a mature duck that is at least six months of age, 50 grams of grains isn’t bad. But, you may feed a lesser amount of grain.
Try to provide them with a wide variety of food, such as fruits, leafy greens, and vegetables. Allow them to forage every day, at least for a while. While foraging, they will have their natural food intake, such as insects and aquatic plants.
Overall, it will be a balanced diet and ensure the ducks’ overall well-being. So, you can feed them grains every day, but do not make grains the main source of food.
Can Ducklings Eat Grains? Absolutely Yes!
Yes, ducklings can. In fact, some grains are just too good for them as a source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. Around 25% of the feed for a baby duck should be protein. So, grains like oats and barley are absolutely good for baby ducks, but in an ideal quantity. But experienced duck owners suggest feeding grit to ducklings, anyway.
Do Ducks Eat Grains in All Forms?
Grains can be found in 3 forms—Raw, Cooked, and Scratch. Let’s check whether or not ducks can eat both of the grain forms.
- Raw Grains: Raw or whole grains are fine for ducks. Wheat, barley, rice, and oats are ideal for ducks, even if these are all uncooked.
- Cooked Grain: Cooked grains are also good for ducks. But be a little cautious in this case. Added spices or sugar won’t bring any good for your ducks. So, if they’re cooked, make sure these are only boiled and there are no added spice or additives.
- Scratch Grain: Scratch grains are a mix of grains like barley, oats, and wheat. It’s tasty but not too nutritious for ducks. Consider it as an occasional treat, and do not overfeed scratch grains. Instead, feed them individual grains.
5 Safe Grains For Ducks And Why
Grains are safe for ducks, more or less. But here are the safest grain picks for your domesticated ducks to answer the question of why. Let’s begin.
1. Corn
Corn is an excellent choice for ducks. It’s safe because it is a good source of energy, and adult ducks can digest it smoothly. In fact, baby ducks, too, can consume corn to boost their nutritional requirement. But remember to feed them crashed corn to avoid choking troubles.
But ducks do have some seasonal preference when it’s about food intake. For corns, you can give it throughout the years. But it would be a great treat for them in colder months. Feeding waterfowls corn in colder months will boost their energy and keeps them active.
Nutritional Profile:
For every 100 grams of corn grains, here are the nutrients corn offers for ducks, according to the USDA.
| Nutrient | Amount per 100 grams |
| Water | 10.4 grams |
| Energy (kcal) | 365 kcal |
| Energy (kJ) | 1530 kJ |
| Protein | 9.42 grams |
| Total Lipid (Fat) | 4.74 grams |
| Ash | 1.2 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 74.3 grams |
| Calcium (Ca) | 7 mg |
| Iron (Fe) | 2.71 mg |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 127 mg |
| Phosphorus (P) | 210 mg |
2. Wheat
Wheat is safe for ducks due to its excellent nutritional value and digestibility. Ducks can easily handle wheat in their diet. It can be fed to both the mature and baby ducks.
Especially for baby ducks, they will be hugely benefited as it’s a great source of nutrients they require for growing well. Wheat is available all year around and can be given to ducks any time of the year.
Nutritional Profile:
Let’s have a comprehensive chart of nutrients wheat provides for ducks in every 100 grams, according to USDA.
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
| Water | 47.8g |
| Energy (kcal) | 198 kcal |
| Energy (kJ) | 828 kJ |
| Protein | 7.49g |
| Total Lipid (Fat) | 1.27g |
| Ash | 0.96g |
| Carbohydrate | 42.5g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1g |
| Calcium (Ca) | 28mg |
| Iron (Fe) | 2.14mg |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 82mg |
| Phosphorus (P) | 200mg |
| Potassium (K) | 169mg |
3. Barley
While talking about grains for ducks, you have to put barley on the list. Like the other grains on the list, Barley is safe because it’s easy for ducks to digest and offers good nutrition.
It is safe for baby ducks and can be part of their diet as well. They can eat it any time of the year as it’s available and have a balanced quantity of all essential nutrients.
Nutritional Profile:
According to USDA, Let’s look at the nutritional composition of every 100 grams of pearled barley.
| Nutrient | Amount per 100 grams |
| Water | 10.1 grams |
| Energy | 352 kcal (1470 kJ) |
| Protein | 9.91 grams |
| Total Lipid (Fat) | 1.16 grams |
| Ash | 1.11 grams |
| Carbohydrate | 77.7 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.6 grams |
| Sugars | 0.8 grams |
| Calcium (Ca) | 29 mg |
| Iron (Fe) | 2.5 mg |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 79 mg |
| Phosphorus (P) | 221 mg |
| Potassium (K) | 280 mg |
4. Oats
Ducks enjoy eating oats. It’s a good choice for ducks because of its high fiber content. It’s best to provide baby ducks with small, manageable servings. However, one negative factor is oats are pretty expensive. Food Business News expressed frustration over the high price of oats in 2022.
Nutritional Profile:
According to USDA, Let’s look at the nutritional composition of every 100 grams of raw oats.
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
| Water | 6.55g |
| Energy (kcal) | 246 kcal |
| Energy (kJ) | 1030 kJ |
| Protein | 17.3g |
| Total Lipid (Fat) | 7.03g |
| Ash | 2.89g |
| Carbohydrate, by difference | 66.2g |
| Fiber, total dietary | 15.4g |
| Sugars, total (including NLEA) | 1.45g |
| Calcium (Ca) | 58mg |
| Iron (Fe) | 5.41mg |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 235mg |
| Phosphorus (P) | 734mg |
| Potassium (K) | 566mg |
5. Rice
Rice is a safe and wholesome food for ducks. Their soft and easy-to-chew texture makes them a suitable choice. In fact, uncooked, dry rice is also fine for your ducks.
Nutritionally, oats are beneficial for ducks. They are rich in carbohydrates, providing ducks with a valuable energy source to help them stay active and healthy.
In summary, oats are a safe and nutritious addition to a duck’s diet. Whether they’re grown-up ducks or adorable ducklings, these grains can be a tasty and healthy part of their meals.
Nutritional Profile:
Let’s have a look at the nutritional composition of every 100 grams of uncooked rice, according to USDA.
| Nutrient | Amount per 100 grams |
| Water | 10.5 grams |
| Energy (Calories) | 370 kcal |
| Energy (Kilojoules) | 1550 kJ |
| Protein | 6.81 grams |
| Total Lipid (Fat) | 0.55 grams |
| Ash | 0.49 grams |
| Carbohydrate, by difference | 81.7 grams |
| Fiber, total dietary | 2.8 grams |
| Calcium (Ca) | 11 mg |
| Iron (Fe) | 1.6 mg |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 23 mg |
| Phosphorus (P) | 71 mg |
| Potassium (K) | 77 mg |
4 Grain Types You Should Avoid Feeding Ducks
Certain grain types are unsafe for your ducks. I’m gonna talk about those types. Carefully read what is mentioned here, as it will make your vision more clear about how suitable grains are for ducks.
- Moldy Grains: Moldy fruits or grains, nothing is good for birds. WHO claims moldy grain comes with mycotoxins, which are harmful to both ducks and humans. Moreover, Consuming moldy grains might cause abdominal pain, illness, and, in fact, death in severe cases.
- Uncooked Beans: Uncooked beans carry lectins and other compounds that are toxic to ducks. If consumed in significant amounts, this can cause gastronomical problems and other health issues. So, it’s better to avoid uncooked beans for ducks.
- High Sugar Grains: High-sugar cereal grains have to be avoided for ducks. Excessive sugar consumption will lead your ducks to be obese, just like the way it does with humans.
- Salted grains: Grains, or snacks with high salt content, should also be avoided for ducks. For example, salted popcorn or salted nuts. Ducks have a low tolerance for salt, and salt overintake can lead to dehydration and kidney problems for your favorite birds.
3 Risks Associated With Ducks Consuming Grains
Don’t you think being aware of the risks that are associated with feeding grains to ducks? You shouldn’t avoid these risky facts while raising ducks in your backyard. Alright, delve into the main topic now.
1. Obesity
Ducks, like humans, can suffer from obesity when they consume an excess of calories. We know grains can be calorie-rich, right? Extra body weight in ducks can lead to various health problems, such as heart disease and joint issues.
2. Nutritional Imbalances
Ducks require a balanced diet to meet their nutritional needs. While grains offer carbohydrates, they may lack essential vitamins and minerals in an adequate portion.
Over-reliance on grains can lead to nutrient deficiencies, affecting the duck’s overall health and growth. So, do not make it the main source of their daily diet.
3. Digestive Problems
Ducks have sensitive digestive systems. Excessive grain intake can disrupt their digestion. Grains are high in carbohydrates, and an overload of carbs can cause digestive discomfort, including gas and bloating. This can lead to discomfort and even impact their ability to absorb essential nutrients.
4 Proven Benefits That Make Grains An Outstanding Duck Food
Let’s have a look at how grains benefit ducks. I’m gonna talk about the health benefits grains will provide to your ducks. Let’s check.
1. Provides Essential Energy
Raw oats are packed with carbohydrates, giving ducks a quick and efficient source of energy. This extra energy comes in handy for their active daily routines, whether it’s swimming on the pond or waddling around the yard.
2. Supports Digestive Health
The fiber in raw oats aids in digestion, helping ducks maintain a healthy digestive system. This actually means less tummy troubles for our feathered friends, which is always a plus point!
3. Nutritional Boost
Grains also offer a fair amount of other essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus. All those nutrients are vital for ducks, potentially contributing to strong bones, better fluid balance, heart health, and overall well-being.
4. Grains Are Suitable for All Ages of Ducks
All ages of ducks are fine with consuming grains. Just make sure if it’s a little bit hard, crack it for the baby ducks. Doing this will keep your adorable baby ducks away from choking troubles. This flexibility keeps grains as one of the top foods for poultry livestock.
But do not forget to keep variety in their diet. Offering them this treat can brighten their day and provide them with a tasty and satisfying snack. It’s a win-win situation – happy ducks and happy caretakers!
How Do Ducks Eat Grains? Serving Approach And Ideal Amount
See, how to offer grains to your ducks and how much is an important matter to consider, right? Throughout the article, I’ve been saying that overconsumption will harm our ducks and all that. Let’s have all the answers to your questions in a nutshell.
When to Feed Grains?
Experts say offering grains like wheat or mixed grains in the afternoon is a good idea. Ducks tend to enjoy their grains more later in the day.
Ideal Grain Amount?
When feeding grains to ducks, keep it moderate. You want to do just what is necessary. For a mature duck, around 50 grams of grains daily sounds sensible. Half of the amount for baby ducks can be fed or mixed with other duck or cat feed.
How to Serve?
Place the grains on a clean area of the ground. Unlike pellets, grains won’t turn mush, so ducks can easily peck them up. If you have a large duck group, you can also feed them in a bowl with water in it.
Ducklings Require Feeding Specification
When introducing ducklings to grains in their initial days, it’s a good idea to soften the grains in water until they get used to it. While they grow older, they’ll learn to eat dry grains. But ensure they always have access to clean water nearby. If you have small duck breeds, they might prefer kibbled (chopped) grains.
Recommended Readings:
Bottom Line
All in all, grains are a brilliant addition to a duck’s varied diet. It can be given every day, but in moderation and not as a main source of food for sure. Grains are a great source of nutrients like carbohydrates and protein. In the cold months of the year, grains are the food that keeps them active and energetic.
I hope you have got all your answers already. So, just avoid giving them excessive amounts of grains. Avoid salted or high-sugar cereals and popcorn. Anyway, no molted grains and uncooked beans for them!
Sources And References:
- https://cdnsciencepub.com/doi/10.1139/cjas-2018-0164
- https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/what-feed-ducks#
- https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/13/6/1097
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S016788091530061X
