During summer days, ducks may stressed because of the heat. So it’s important to keep them cool and water is the best solution.
But how to keep ducks cool in summer? To ensure your ducks stay cool during the summer, prioritize their access to cold water for both drinking and playful swims. Create shaded areas for them to rest and nap, and consider feeding them during the cooler evening hours to keep their energy up.
You can offer hydrating treats and watch for signs of heat stress, ensuring quick cooling if needed. However, take a look at the discussion I included below!
Table of Contents
How To Keep Ducks Cool In Summer? 12 Ways To Follow!
Ducks are very good at regulating their body temperature but can still get heat stress in hot weather. It is important to take steps to keep your ducks cool in the summer, especially if you live in a hot climate.
Extreme heat can cause stress in ducks. Some signs show that ducks are stressed because of heat. For instance:
- Ducks are panting
- Flapping their wings
- Drinking a lot of water
- Refusing to eat
- Being weak
- Laying fewer or smaller eggs
If you notice these signs in your ducks, you should take some steps to keep your ducks cool. Here are some of my suggestions:
1. Watch for Signs of Heat Stress
Most importantly, keep a close eye on your ducks during hot weather. Signs of heat stress can include heavy panting, lethargy, or a drop in egg production for laying ducks. If you observe these symptoms, take immediate action to cool them down.
Here is a video that shows how to keep ducks cool in summer:
2. Provide Ample Shade
Shade is essential for ducks to escape direct sunlight. Set up a shaded area in their enclosure, using tarps, umbrellas, or natural structures like trees. Ensure the shaded area is large enough for all your ducks. It’ll ensure they can comfortably gather in and rest during the hottest part of the day.
3. Proper Housing
You have to make sure that your pet ducks have a shelter that is well-ventilated and insulated. Ducks can overheat easily, so a properly designed coop or house will help regulate their temperature. Ensure that there is good airflow while keeping the shelter safe from predators.
4. Kiddie Pools or Water Features
Ducks love water, and access to it is necessary to cool down. Provide a kiddie pool or shallow pond for your ducks to wade in. Ducks will also use water to clean their feathers, which helps regulate their body temperature. Make sure the water is changed regularly to prevent contamination.
5. Frozen Treats
On hot days, frozen treats, such as frozen lettuce, peas, or corn. Ducks will peck at these treats, and the icy texture will help cool them down. Additionally, providing some ice blocks in their water sources can also help lower the water temperature.
6. Adequate Water Supply
Always ensure your ducks have a constant supply of clean, fresh water. Ducks need to drink water to regulate their body temperature, and they’ll also splash around in it to keep cool. Regularly change the water to prevent it from getting too warm.
7. Limit Physical Activity
During the hottest parts of the day, it’s a good idea to limit your ducks’ physical activity. Ducks are naturally active in the morning and evening, so providing shelter during the peak sun hours can help prevent heat stress.
8. Proper Diet
A duck’s diet can affect its susceptibility to heat stress. Avoid feeding your ducks a high-protein diet like seeds or nuts during hot weather. It can raise their body temperature. Instead, provide a balanced, appropriate diet for ducks. For example, commercially prepared ducks feed along with nutritious treats like fruits, veggies, plants, or insects occasionally.
9. Wetting Down
Misting your ducks with a gentle spray of cool water can be beneficial. However, ensure the water isn’t too cold, which can shock them. Wetting down their feet, bills, and the area around their eyes is particularly helpful in cooling them off.
10. Adjust Feeding Schedule
During extremely hot days, consider adjusting the ducks’ feeding schedule. Feed them during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. It can help to minimize the heat generated by digestion.
11. Cooling Pads or Wet Towels
Place wet towels or cooling pads in their living area. Ducks can rest on these surfaces to cool down.
12. Regular Health Checks
Keep an eye on your ducks for signs of heat stress. For example – panting excessively or lethargy. If you notice any issues, consult with a veterinarian.
Recommended Readings:
Bottom Line
To ensure your ducks stay cool during hot summer days, take essential steps as mentioned above. Ducks can suffer from heat stress in high temperatures. To prevent this, provide ample shade in their enclosure, use well-ventilated and insulated housing, and offer a kiddie pool or shallow pond for them to wade in and clean themselves.
Always provide clean, fresh water for drinking and splashing. Watch for signs of heat stress and adjust their feeding schedule to cooler times of the day. These measures will help keep your ducks cool and healthy during the summer.
Resources & References
- https://www.rspca.org.au/blog/2022/what-ducks-need-good-life
- https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/heat-tolerant-ducks.374475/
