Space for ducks

[nachoqtpie]

So, I'm about 98% positive that both of my mallards are male. One has the green head starting to show thru, and they both have curly feathers on their butt.

I'm sure one of the Pekin is female, and pretty sure the other is male, even tho there is no curly drake feathers that I can see. He just doesn't have a quack!

My question is... if I can't find someone to trade ducks with, how many ducks can I COMFORTABLY fit in my 8x24 run? I was thinking of just adding 2 hens to the group.

If I go that route, will it be safe to just put them in with the other 4, or will I have to slowly introduce them like you do chickens?

 

[nachoqtpie]

Here are a couple pictures so you can see what the beasts look like these days

I guess you can't see it all that well in that last picture... but he's starting to get his green head feathers come in now.

 

[secuono]

Is this 8x24 run moveable? I had a 30x35ft area for 10-12 ducks and it had no grass by the time winter hit.
Can you eat one or two of the extras? I'm sure you can sell them, if not trade them. But, if you are looking to trade, it will be two males for a hen.

Ducks are pigs with feathers...

They also do NOT fight like chickens and other birds. They are far more calm and accepting of other ducks, so little worry there. I would just add the new ones, toss out some food and they will be fine.

I'm sure you can add 2-3 hens, but you will eventually have to move the pen or fence off half to let the grass grow back so it's not just a pig pen.

 

[lesa]

They turned into real beauties! Love them!