When do ducks start laying eggs? They generally start laying eggs when they get around 5 to 7 months old. However, individual species may have different timing. Many factors affect egg laying, like season or diet. For instance, in summer and spring, ducks lay more eggs compared to winter.
Here, I will have a detailed discussion on ducks’ egg laying. Stay with me to know more.
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When Do Ducks Start Laying Eggs? Check What Studies Say!
According to NSDW, ducks start laying eggs when they reach 5 to 7 months old, depending on the species. Along with age and breed, season and diet can affect ducks’ egg laying.
See here a duck is laying eggs:
It doesn’t matter whether the females mate with drakes or not. The time to lay eggs may vary depending on the species. But it takes 10 minutes on average.
Here, I have discussed the factors that can affect ducks’ egg-laying.
Ducks’ Breed & Age
Different duck breeds mature at different rates, which impacts when they start laying eggs. Here are some examples:
| Ducks Breed | Age When They Start Laying Eggs |
|---|---|
| Pekin ducks | Around 5 to 6 months |
| Khali Campbell ducks | Around 4 to 5 months |
| Muscovy ducks | From 6 to 8 months |
| Mallard ducks | From 6 to 8 months |
| Runner ducks | Around 6 to 7 months |
| Cayuga ducks | Around 5 to 7 months |
| Rouen ducks | About 7 to 10 months |
Seasonal Variations
Ducks are influenced by daylight hours when it comes to egg production. They tend to lay more eggs during the longer daylight hours of spring and summer. And they may reduce or stop laying during the shorter days of fall and winter.
Nutritional Facts
Adequate nutrition plays a crucial role in a duck’s ability to lay eggs. Ducks need a balanced diet rich in calcium and other essential nutrients to produce strong and healthy eggs. For instance:
- Protein: The Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology claims ducks require a higher level of protein during the laying period. Protein supports the development of eggs. A diet with around 16-18% protein is suitable for laying ducks.
- Calcium: It is essential for the formation of strong eggshells. Ducks need a good amount of calcium to prevent eggshell abnormalities and maintain bone health.
- Vitamin D: It assists in calcium absorption, which is important for healthy eggshells.
- Water: Ducks need water for digestion, cooling down, and support the formation of egg whites. It’s because dehydration can lead to reduced egg production and even egg binding.
5 Signs That Your Ducks Are Ready to Lay Eggs
Observing your ducks for certain behavioral and physical signs can help you determine when they are about to start laying eggs:
1. Increased Nesting Behavior
Ducks that are close to laying their first eggs often exhibit nesting behavior. They may become more interested in exploring nesting boxes or secluded areas.
2. Swollen Abdomen
As a duck’s body prepares to lay eggs, her abdomen may become visibly swollen.
3. Changes in Vocalization
Some ducks may become more vocal as they approach their first egg-laying, possibly due to excitement or discomfort.
4. Increased Preoccupation with Feathers
Ducks may start preening themselves more frequently as they prepare to lay eggs.
5. Physical Maturation
Ducks will reach their full size and physical maturity before they start laying eggs. Pay attention to their size and the development of their plumage.
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How Often Do Ducks Lay Eggs?
Depending on the ducks’ breeds, it may vary how often ducks lay eggs. Ducks can lay eggs once or twice a day. Here are some of them:
| Ducks Breed | How Often Ducks Lay Eggs |
|---|---|
| Pekin ducks | Once in 3 days |
| Khali Campbell ducks | Once in a day |
| Muscovy ducks | Once in a day |
| Mallard ducks | Once in a day or 2 days |
| Runner ducks | 8 to 10 times a week |
| Cayuga ducks | Twice or thrice in a day |
| Rouen ducks | Once in a day or 2 days |
Duck’s Breed And The Amount Of Laying Egg
The amount of laying eggs can vary with duck species. Here are some examples:
| Ducks’ Breed | Amount Of Eggs (per year) |
|---|---|
| Khali Campbell ducks | Upto 340 eggs |
| Runner ducks | Around 300 eggs |
| Pekin ducks | Around 200 eggs |
| Rouen ducks | About 175 – 200 eggs |
| Muscovy ducks | About 180 eggs |
| Cayuga ducks | Around 100 – 150 eggs |
| Mallard ducks | Upto 60 eggs |
What You Can Do for the Egg-Laying Ducks? 10 Tips!
Taking care of egg-laying ducks involves several important steps to ensure their health and maximize egg production. Here’s what you can do for your egg-laying ducks:
- Provide a Comfortable Environment: Ensure that the ducks have enough space in their living area. Create cozy nesting boxes with soft bedding material to make them feel secure.
- Manage Temperature and Light: Keep the temperature in their living space comfortable, not too hot or too cold. Ensure they have exposure to natural light, especially during the longer days of spring and summer.
- Supplemental Lighting if Needed: If ducks are not laying enough eggs, consider using special lights to make their days longer. This can trick them into thinking it’s the right time to lay eggs.
- Provide Access to Clean Water: Ducks love water! Make sure they have clean water for drinking and splashing. It’s essential for their overall health and egg production.
- Offer a Nutrient-Rich Diet: Feed them a balanced and nutritious diet with the right amount of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Ensure they have access to calcium-rich foods or supplements, as it’s crucial for strong eggshells.
- Regular Health Checks: Keep an eye on the ducks’ health. If they look sick or less active, consult with a vet. Deworm and vaccinate them as needed to prevent diseases.
- Monitor Egg-Laying Behavior: Watch for signs that they are ready to lay eggs, such as changes in behavior and spending more time in nesting areas. Collect eggs regularly to prevent them from getting damaged or attracting pests.
- Prevent Stressors: Reduce stress factors like overcrowding or sudden changes in their environment. Ensure they have a peaceful and safe space for laying eggs.
- Clean Living Space: Regularly clean their living area to maintain hygiene and prevent diseases. Keep their nesting boxes clean to encourage consistent egg-laying.
- Provide Entertainment: Ducks can get bored. So offer them toys or items like floating objects in their water to keep them entertained.
Related Readings:
- Do Ducks Lay Eggs In Water
- Time When Ducks Stop Laying Eggs
- How To Hatch Duck Eggs Without Incubator
Wrap Up
So, When do ducks start laying eggs? After researching, I have found ducks start laying eggs when they get 5 to 7 months old. It may vary depending on the species. Season and diet also have impacts on egg laying. For example, Khaki Campbell is an early egg layer.
And ducks are more into laying eggs when the days are longer and warmer. You have to take care of living conditions, diet, and overall health for a good amount of egg production.
Resources & References:
- https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/animals-and-livestock/poultry-and-birds/species/duck-raising/egg-production
- https://animals.net/mallard-duck/#google_vignette
