Ducklings and Chicks - Brood Separately

2 Week Old Duckling vs 2 Week Old Chick

Brooding is the process of caring for newly hatched chicks and ducklings until they are old enough to care for themselves. As much as it may seem convenient to brood chicks and ducklings together, there are several reasons why this should not be done.

Here are some reasons (and pictures 😁) why you should not brood chicks and ducklings together.

1.) Different Dietary Requirements

Chicks and ducklings have different dietary requirements that cannot be met by the same feed. Chicks require starter feed which is high in protein content, while ducklings require a waterfowl starter which is lower in protein and higher in niacin. If they are kept together, the ducklings will not receive sufficient niacin, which could lead to leg problems and developmental abnormalities.

2.) Hygiene

Ducklings are naturally messier than chicks as they create a lot of excrement and splash water. When the are kept together, the wet environment may promote bacterial growth, leading to the spread of diseases such as salmonella, coccidiosis, and botulism. Additionally, the high humidity levels can also cause respiratory issues in chicks.

3.) Size Differences

Ducklings grow at a faster rate than chicks, making them larger and more dominant. This can lead to aggressive behavior towards the chicks and can cause injuries or even death. The size differences can also make it difficult for them to share feeders and waterers, leading to inadequate feeding and dehydration.

4.) Temperature Requirements

Chicks and ducklings have a different temperature requirements during brooding. Chicks require a temperature of 95 F in the first week, which is gradually reduced by 5 F each week. On the other hand, ducklings require a lower temperature of 90 F in the first week, which is reduced by 5 F every five days. When the are kept together, it becomes challenging to meet the temperature needs of both species.

All in all, brooding chicks and ducklings together is not recommended due to their different nutritional requirements, hygiene problems, size differences, and temperature requirements. Optimal health and well-being of the birds can be attained by keeping each species separately in a well-maintained environment with proper housing and nutrition. It is essential to research and understand the specific needs of each species before embarking on brooding to ensure their optimal growth and development.