If you’re considering raising ducks for eggs or meat, but want to learn about a unique breed that’s perfect for small spaces, you’ve come to the right place. Meet the call duck, a fascinating and charming bird that’s been delighting backyard farmers and waterfowl enthusiasts alike for centuries. Not only are these adorable ducks relatively low-maintenance, but they’re also incredibly social and fun to watch. But what makes them so special? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of call ducks, explore their characteristics and traits, and provide expert advice on how to care for and breed these lovable birds. Whether you’re a seasoned duck keeper or just starting out, our guide will show you how to raise happy and healthy call ducks that thrive in your backyard or smallholding.
What are Call Ducks?
So you want to learn more about these adorable birds, and let’s start by covering the basics: what exactly is a call duck, and where did they come from.
Definition and Origin
Call ducks have a rich history that dates back to their wild ancestors, the mallards. It’s believed that over time, humans selectively bred mallards for desirable traits such as small size, docile nature, and unique characteristics like feathered feet. This selective breeding led to the creation of various duck breeds, including the call duck.
As you might expect from a domesticated breed, call ducks have undergone significant changes since their wild days. In terms of physical appearance, they’ve developed shorter legs and a more compact body compared to their mallard counterparts. Their beaks are also slightly smaller, which is likely an adaptation for their reduced size.
Despite these changes, call ducks still retain many characteristics from their wild ancestors. For instance, they’re known to be social birds that thrive in flocks, just like their mallard relatives. They also have a strong instinct to follow water and can often be found swimming or foraging near ponds and lakes.
Characteristics and Appearance
Call ducks are easily identifiable due to their compact size and unique physical characteristics. On average, they grow to about 1/4 of the size of standard duck breeds, weighing between 2-3 pounds and measuring around 10 inches in length. This small stature makes them a great choice for backyard enthusiasts with limited space.
One of the most distinguishing features of call ducks is their beautiful plumage. They come in an array of colors, including buff, black, blue, white, and chocolate. Their feathers are also known to be quite dense and soft to the touch, giving them a charming appearance. Beak shape is another characteristic that sets them apart from other breeds. Call ducks have a small, stubby beak that’s perfectly suited for their size.
Their plumage and compact build give call ducks an endearing and cute appearance that’s sure to capture your heart. If you’re considering bringing one home, make sure you have enough space in your coop or enclosure to accommodate their unique needs.
Temperament and Personality
Call ducks are known for their unique and endearing personalities. As social birds, they thrive on interaction with humans and other animals. They are highly curious and love to explore their surroundings, often venturing further afield than you’d expect from such small birds.
One of the defining characteristics of call ducks is their tendency to form close bonds with their owners. They can become incredibly attached and affectionate, often seeking out human interaction and enjoying being petted or cuddled. However, this attachment also means they can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods without adequate mental stimulation.
To bring out the best in your call duck’s temperament, it’s essential to provide plenty of socialization and enrichment activities. This could include providing a varied diet, creating a stimulating environment with toys and perches, or even teaching them tricks. By doing so, you’ll not only keep your bird happy but also strengthen the bond between you and your feathered friend.
In terms of social behavior, call ducks are generally quite tolerant of other birds and can coexist peacefully in a flock setting. However, as with any bird species, introducing new birds to an existing group requires careful consideration and proper introduction techniques.
Call Duck Care and Housing
When it comes to keeping call ducks happy and healthy, providing proper care and housing is crucial. We’ll guide you through creating a suitable environment for your feathered friends in this section.
Providing a Suitable Environment
When it comes to providing a suitable environment for your call ducks, housing requirements are essential. Call ducks need space to move around comfortably, stretch their wings, and engage in natural behaviors like preening and dust bathing. A minimum of 2-3 square feet per bird is recommended, but more space is always better.
In addition to ample space, a suitable shelter is crucial for protecting your call ducks from harsh weather conditions, predators, and diseases. You can provide a coop or hut specifically designed for waterfowl, ensuring it’s well-ventilated, dry, and draft-free. Consider adding windows or skylights to allow natural light in.
Amenities like pools and nesting boxes are also important. Call ducks love swimming, so a pool or pond is a must-have. Make sure it’s at least 2 feet deep to prevent them from drowning. For nesting boxes, position one for every 3-4 birds, ensuring they’re clean, dry, and well-maintained. A simple guide to building your own nesting box can be found online.
Remember, the housing environment should reflect the natural habits of call ducks. By providing ample space, shelter, pools, and nesting boxes, you’ll create a happy and healthy home for your feathered friends.
Diet and Nutrition
When it comes to providing a balanced diet for your call ducks, there are several factors to consider. These birds have specific nutritional needs that must be met through their food and supplements.
A good starting point is to provide a commercial duck feed as the main staple of their diet. This type of feed is formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of waterfowl, including call ducks. You can supplement this with fresh fruits and vegetables daily, such as leafy greens like kale and spinach, or berries like strawberries and blueberries.
Grains like oats and barley are also nutritious options for call ducks. They can be offered in moderation, but it’s essential to avoid overfeeding grains, which can lead to obesity and other health problems. Fresh water should always be available, and it’s a good idea to provide a calcium supplement to support strong eggshell production.
In terms of feeding frequency, call ducks need a consistent supply of food throughout the day. Two to three times a day is usually sufficient, but you’ll want to monitor their intake to ensure they’re not overeating. Also, be aware that call ducks can be prone to pecking disorders if they don’t have enough mental and physical stimulation.
It’s also crucial to provide your call ducks with access to sunlight or UVB lighting to support calcium absorption and prevent metabolic bone disease.
Health Considerations
Call ducks are generally hardy birds, but like all poultry, they can be susceptible to certain health issues. One of the most common diseases affecting call ducks is avian cholera, which can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and death if left untreated. To prevent this, it’s essential to maintain good hygiene practices in your coop, including regular cleaning and disinfection.
Another common issue is respiratory problems, such as tracheal obstruction or bronchitis, often caused by bacteria like E. coli or Pasteurella. These conditions can be triggered by environmental factors, such as dust, ammonia fumes from manure, or poor ventilation in the coop.
Regular health checks are crucial to detect any potential issues early on. Monitor your call ducks’ droppings for signs of worms, such as blood or mucous, and check their feet for cracks or abscesses that can become painful and infected if left untreated. Keeping a clean and well-maintained environment will go a long way in preventing health problems, so be sure to provide plenty of fresh water and a balanced diet.
It’s also essential to handle your call ducks gently and humanely to avoid stressing them out, which can lead to injuries or illnesses.
Breeding and Raising Call Ducks
If you’re thinking of adding call ducks to your flock, learning how to breed and raise them is essential for their health and happiness. Let’s dive into the basics of breeding and raising these lovable waterfowl.
Choosing a Breeder or Hatchery
When selecting a breeder or hatchery for your call ducks, it’s crucial to prioritize their reputation and health record. A reputable source will not only provide healthy, disease-free ducklings but also ensure a smooth start to their life with you.
Start by researching local breeders or online hatcheries that specialize in call ducks. Look for reviews, testimonials, and ratings from other customers to gauge the breeder’s reliability. You can also ask fellow call duck enthusiasts for recommendations or join online forums to gather more information.
When evaluating a potential breeder or hatchery, check their health guarantee, vaccination protocols, and biosecurity measures. A good breeder should be transparent about the origin of their birds, breeding stock, and testing procedures for diseases such as avian influenza or Marek’s disease.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions; reputable breeders will happily provide you with detailed information about their operations and the ducklings they offer. By taking the time to research and select a trustworthy breeder or hatchery, you’ll set your new call ducks up for success and ensure a long, happy life together.
Caring for Ducklings
When it comes to raising call ducklings, their care and development are crucial for them to grow into healthy adult birds. As soon as they hatch, they need a warm and safe environment that mimics the natural brooding behavior of a mother duck.
To ensure proper brooding, it’s essential to maintain a temperature of around 90-95°F (32-35°C) in their first week, gradually decreasing it by 5°F every few days until they’re about three weeks old. This will help them regulate their body heat and grow strong feathers.
Ducklings require a specialized feeding system, especially in the first few weeks. You can use a starter feed or game bird feed mixed with some oats or wheat to create a nutritious diet. As they grow, you can gradually introduce pellets or grains into their diet. It’s also vital to provide fresh water at all times and ensure they have access to shallow pools for bathing.
Socialization is another critical aspect of raising ducklings. Keep them in a secure enclosure with other ducklings, allowing them to interact and learn important behaviors like swimming, feeding, and roosting.
Mating and Egg Production
When it comes to breeding and raising call ducks, understanding their mating process and egg-laying habits is crucial for success. Call ducks are polygynous, meaning males can mate with multiple females, which increases the chances of fertile eggs being produced.
The fertility rate of call duck eggs varies depending on several factors, including the breed, age, and health of the parents. On average, a healthy female call duck will lay around 200-300 eggs per year, with an average fertility rate of 70-80%. However, this can range from as low as 50% to as high as 90%, depending on various factors.
It’s essential to note that call ducks typically lay their first egg at around 6-8 months old, and the clutch size usually ranges between 4-12 eggs. When selecting a breeding pair, look for healthy individuals with good feather condition, bright eyes, and a lively demeanor. Proper nutrition, regular health checks, and stress-free living conditions will also contribute to higher fertility rates and overall reproductive success.
Call Ducks as Pets
If you’re thinking of bringing a call duck into your home, you’ll want to know whether they make great pets and how to care for them properly. Let’s dive into what it takes to raise happy, healthy call ducks as part of the family.
The Pros and Cons of Keeping Call Ducks as Pets
If you’re considering bringing call ducks into your backyard flock, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of keeping them as pets. On one hand, call ducks are friendly, social birds that can make wonderful additions to a well-established flock. They are relatively easy to care for and require minimal space, making them an excellent choice for small backyards or urban homesteads.
However, call ducks do have specific needs when it comes to space and social interaction. Ideally, they need around 2-4 square feet of space per bird, which can be a challenge if you’re keeping multiple ducks in a small area. Additionally, call ducks are highly social creatures that thrive on interaction with other birds, so if you don’t have an existing flock, it’s crucial to spend quality time with them daily.
One way to make call ducks happy and healthy is to provide them with a variety of toys and activities, such as swimming pools or foraging areas. This will help keep them stimulated and engaged, reducing the risk of boredom and stress-related behaviors.
Training and Socialization
Training and socialization are crucial steps to take with your call duck from an early age. Start by getting them used to human interaction and touch. Spend time with your call duck daily, handling them gently, and speaking softly. This helps build trust and makes them more receptive to training.
Begin with simple commands like ‘come,’ ‘stay,’ and ‘step up.’ Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as offering treats or rewards, when they respond correctly. Be patient and consistent in your approach, as call ducks can be stubborn at times.
Socialization is also vital for a well-adjusted call duck. Introduce them to various environments, people, and other animals under controlled circumstances. This helps prevent fear and aggression issues later on. You can socialize your call duck by taking them for walks, visits to the park, or even participating in local bird shows.
Remember, every interaction with your call duck should be a positive experience. Keep their environment stress-free, provide plenty of exercise and playtime, and reward good behavior. With patience and dedication, you’ll develop a friendly, interactive companion that brings joy to your life.
Integration with Other Poultry or Animals
If you’re thinking of introducing your call ducks to other birds or animals in the household, it’s essential to do so gradually and under close supervision. Start by keeping them separate and allowing them to get used to each other’s sounds and scents.
When it comes to integrating with other poultry, consider their species and temperament. For example, mixing call ducks with large breeds like geese or turkeys may not be the best idea, as they have different requirements and can be quite aggressive. However, introducing them to smaller, friendly birds like bantams or quails might work.
When it comes to integrating with other animals, such as dogs or cats, ensure that your call ducks are safe and secure in their enclosure. Make sure your dog is well-trained and under control before allowing them near the duck’s area. As for introducing them to cats, it’s often best to keep them separate, as some breeds can be quite curious about birds.
When bringing new animals together, keep an eye out for signs of stress or aggression, such as hissing, growling, or pecking. Be prepared to intervene if necessary and provide a safe space for each animal to retreat to if needed. With patience and careful introduction, you may find that your call ducks get along swimmingly with the rest of the household.
History of Call Duck Breeding
The fascinating history of call duck breeding dates back centuries, and we’re excited to take you on a journey through its evolution over time. From humble beginnings to modern-day varieties.
Development of Various Call Duck Strains
As you delve into the world of call ducks, you’ll discover that these delightful birds have been bred into various strains over time. Each strain boasts unique characteristics, making them suitable for specific purposes. The development of these breeds can be attributed to dedicated breeders who sought to enhance their appearance, temperament, and egg-laying abilities.
For instance, the Blue Swedish call duck is a popular strain known for its iridescent feathers and robust build. Originating from Sweden, this breed excels in cold climates, producing an average of 150 eggs per year. In contrast, the Golden Call Duck, hailing from England, boasts a more refined appearance with golden feathers. This strain lays around 180 eggs annually and is often sought after by backyard enthusiasts due to its friendly demeanor.
Other notable strains include the White Call Duck, Khaki Campbell, and Welsh Harlequin. Each of these breeds has been selectively bred for distinct traits, ensuring that you can find a call duck to suit your needs whether it’s for egg production or as a companion bird. When choosing a strain, consider factors such as climate, space constraints, and desired level of involvement in caring for the birds.
Contributions to Modern Duck Breeds
The contributions of call duck breeding to modern duck breeds cannot be overstated. Many popular breeds today owe a debt of gratitude to the innovative breeders who worked with call ducks in the early 20th century. The Khaki Campbell, for instance, is one such breed that directly benefited from cross-breeding with call ducks.
Developed in England in the 1900s, the Khaki Campbell was created by crossing the Indian Runner and the Call Duck to produce a hardy, high-yielding egg-layer. This dual-purpose breed has since become a staple of backyard flocks worldwide, prized for its friendly nature and prolific egg production. Similarly, the Welsh Harlequin’s origins are tied to the same cross-breeding experiments, yielding a breed characterized by its striking harlequin coloration and exceptional foraging abilities.
If you’re a serious breeder looking to introduce some fresh genetics into your flock, consider incorporating call duck lines into your breeding program. Be prepared to be patient, however – successful breeding requires careful selection and attention to detail. By doing so, you may find yourself creating the next modern breed sensation!
Tips for Beginners
Getting started with call ducks can be overwhelming, so we’ve put together some essential tips specifically designed to help beginners care for their new feathered friends successfully.
Getting Started with Call Ducks
As you embark on your call duck-keeping journey, it’s essential to understand their basic needs. Call ducks are social animals and require attention, so make sure you have enough time to devote to them. Start by setting up a safe and spacious enclosure that provides protection from predators and harsh weather conditions.
When it comes to housing, consider a minimum of 2 square feet per duck inside the coop and 10-15 square feet in the run. You’ll also need to provide nesting boxes for your females, as they will lay eggs. Line the coop with wood shavings or straw, and ensure good ventilation to keep your ducks healthy.
In terms of feeding, call ducks are omnivores and require a balanced diet that includes grains, vegetables, fruits, and protein sources like mealworms or crickets. Provide fresh water at all times, and consider supplementing their diet with calcium and oyster shells for strong eggshell production.
Start small and gradually increase the number of ducks as you gain experience. This will help you manage their social dynamics and prevent overcrowding issues.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When it comes to owning call ducks, there are several common issues that beginners may encounter. One of the most pressing concerns is health problems. Call ducks are prone to respiratory issues such as pneumonia and bronchitis due to their compact bodies and high-pitched crowing. To prevent these issues, make sure your duck’s environment is well-ventilated and clean.
Another issue you may face is behavioral problems. Some call ducks can be quite loud and territorial, leading to conflicts with other pets in the household. To address this, consider providing a separate enclosure for your call duck or using noise-reducing devices.
Egg production is another area where beginners may struggle. Call ducks are prolific layers, producing around 100-150 eggs per year. However, their egg-laying can be affected by factors such as nutrition and health. Ensure that your duck has access to a balanced diet rich in protein and calcium to support her reproductive system.
If you do experience any issues with your call duck’s health or behavior, consult with a veterinarian or experienced breeder for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Determine the Suitable Size of a Call Duck’s Enclosure?
When raising call ducks, it’s essential to provide an enclosure that caters to their unique needs. A good rule of thumb is to ensure the coop and run are at least 2-3 square feet per bird. However, if you plan on keeping multiple call ducks, consider a larger area or multiple enclosures to prevent overcrowding.
What Happens If I Don’t Provide Enough Space for My Call Ducks?
Insufficient space can lead to stress, aggression, and even health issues in call ducks. Make sure to provide adequate room for your birds to roam, exercise, and engage in natural behaviors like foraging and swimming. A well-designed enclosure will promote a happy and healthy flock.
Can I Mix Call Ducks with Other Poultry or Animals?
While call ducks are generally friendly and social, introducing them to other poultry or animals requires careful consideration. Start by introducing them slowly and under close supervision to prevent any conflicts. Some compatible species include chickens, geese, and even some breeds of turkeys.
How Do I Protect My Call Ducks from Predators?
Ducks are natural prey for many predators, so it’s crucial to take measures to safeguard their safety. Use sturdy fencing, secure coop doors, and consider adding protective coverings like netting or chicken wire to prevent aerial attacks. Always be vigilant when letting your ducks out of their enclosure.
What Should I Do If My Call Duck Stops Laying Eggs?
A decrease in egg production can be a concern for many backyard duck keepers. Check for any health issues, ensure proper nutrition and lighting, and adjust the breed’s age and reproductive cycle to optimize egg-laying potential. Consult with an expert or veterinarian if you’re unsure about your call duck’s specific needs.