how to care for ducks in the winter
Thriving in the cold months can be tricky for animals, so this tips list on caring for ducks in the winter will help.
Raising chickens and ducks that are healthy and thriving all year long no matter what the weather is doing will help your homestead to be the best it can be.
Winter is not something I enjoy anymore. I loved being outside in the snow when I was younger, but as I age, I find myself getting colder more quickly. Being prepared before I head outdoors allows me to better withstand the chill.
The same is true with our animals.
The better we can prepare them for the cold, the healthier they will be throughout.
What Temperature is Too Cold for Ducks?
Ducks are pretty hardy birds and actually do quite well in cold, wet weather.
Generally, adult ducks that are healthy can tolerate temperatures well below freezing. If the weather drops below 20°F (-6°C) for an extended period, you will want to be sure you have an adequate shelter for them to get out of the cold and warm up.
how to care for ducks in the winter
Even though ducks enjoy the cold, there are still things you will want to do to ensure they stay healthy and hardy throughout the winter months.
Adequate Shelter
The main purpose of any shelter is to provide a warm, dry place for animals. It should be free of moisture and drafts yet still have fresh air coming in.
Your ducks’ shelter should have plenty of ventilation that is up high bringing in fresh air without a cold draft blowing on them.
Be sure there is enough space for all your ducks to fit comfortably inside allowing them to move around without being overcrowded.
Bedding
Adequate bedding is important during the winter months as it plays two roles.
#1. It gives a layer of insulation, keeping the inside warmer.
#2. It soaks up any moisture from urine or wetness that is brought in from outside.
Good options for bedding include straw, hay, or pine shavings. I prefer to use pine shavings as bedding because it does a great job of soaking up moisture without feeling wet.
Where can you purchase wood shavings?
You can find wood shavings at your local coop or a big box farm store such as Tractor Supply. You can also find shavings online, however the prices are a bit higher due to shipping costs.
SLCG Pro Tip: If there is a 4H group and a local fair in your area, bags of wood shavings will usually go on sale the week before. This is a great time to stock up on your winter supply.
Be sure to clean out any wet or soiled bedding regularly, or you can use the deep litter method.
Water Source
Water is essential for all animals, especially during the winter months. Fresh water will encourage your ducks to drink more often keeping them healthier.
On very cold days, you can change out the water a few times to keep it from freezing. Another tip is to add spinach leaves to the water to encourage them to drink.
You can use a heated waterer specifically designed for poultry or you can purchase an insulated bucket with a built-in heater.
Keeping the water from freezing will not only ensure your ducks stay hydrated, but it will also prevent them from pecking at ice and potentially injuring their beaks.
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Feeding Options
During the winter months, it is important to keep your ducks well-fed as they need extra energy to stay warm.
You can choose to feed them a higher protein diet, such as game bird feed, or simply increase their regular feed intake.
Providing your ducks with fresh greens and vegetables is also beneficial, as they can be lacking in these nutrients during the colder months. Plus ducks love snacks and it will help to get them up and moving during the day.
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You can also add supplements, such as poultry vitamins or probiotics, to boost their immune system and overall health.
What else can you do to keep ducks warm?
There are a few more things you can do to help keep the inside of the duck house warmer throughout the winter months.
#1. Use bales to insulate
I like lining up hay or straw bales along the walls to help insulate the inside. This works much better than you might have realized. Many times, our coop is 10 degrees warmer than it is outside.
#2. Deep Litter Method
The deep litter method is a great way to add extra insulation to the floor of your duck’s shelter. Rather than cleaning out soiled bedding, you will add a fresh layer every few days. This keeps the top dry, and the bottom helps to keep the ground warmer.
#3. Straw Beds
Ducks love to snuggle in warm beds, and you can give them some cozy spots by piling up straw inside their house.
Do ducks swim in the winter?
While ducks are known for their love of swimming, it is important to monitor their water activities during the winter.
Ducks have a layer of fat and many feathers that work together to keep them warm even while swimming.
I like to give them a small area to swim in during the afternoon when the weather is a bit warmer. A small bowl is usually enough to let them climb in and splash for a bit giving them a chance to do what they love.
Outside Winter Protection
To protect your ducks outside in the run, it is good to have a sheltered area from the weather. You can hang a heavy-duty tarp to one side, attach a board to stop drifts and winds, or build an overhang.
Another tip is to put fresh bedding on the ground to give the ducks a warm, dry layer to walk on.
While ducks are naturally equipped to handle colder temperatures, it is important to take extra precautions during the winter months to ensure they stay healthy.
By providing a warm shelter, giving fresh water daily, and watching for any issues, you can help your ducks thrive during the winter season. How to care for your ducks in the winter so everyone stays cozy and warm.
