Overnight winter duck duck feeding tube
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In winter, cold weather and reduced daylight make it the least productive season for laying ducks. However, with proper management, the egg production rate of young female ducks can be maintained at 80% or higher. Here are the key points to consider when managing ducks during this season.
First, reorganize the flock. Remove weak, sick, old, or low-yielding ducks to reduce mortality and feed waste. This helps maintain a healthier and more productive group.
Second, control the temperature inside the shed. Ducks need warmth to stay healthy and continue laying eggs. Ensure that the temperature in the shed stays above 5°C, especially during the night. After feeding, close the shed and insulate it using straw or wheat stalks around the walls and cover the roof with a thick layer of grass—minimum 5 cm. This helps retain heat and keeps the environment stable.
Third, use thick bedding. Place soft, clean straw or wheat stalks about 30 cm thick inside the nesting area. After collecting eggs in the morning, spread the old bedding throughout the house. Before bedtime, add fresh bedding to the nests. This not only keeps the ducks warm but also reduces labor over time.
Fourth, ensure proper nutrition. Winter requires more energy, so increase the amount of corn and other energy-rich feeds by 10-15% compared to summer. Provide enough green feed or supplement vitamins A, D, and E. Adding 3-5% fat to the diet and offering chopped vegetables like cabbage or radish once a day can improve overall health and egg quality.
Fifth, provide nighttime feed. Long, cold nights mean ducks need extra nourishment. Feeding them warm food at night improves their energy levels and helps keep them warm, increasing egg production by over 10%. Make sure to offer warm water and avoid high-protein feeds at night.
Sixth, offer warm drinks. Ducks need warm water to maintain body temperature. Prepare all feed and drinking water with hot water, keeping it around 38°C. Avoid giving them ice-cold water, as it can cause stress and lower productivity.
Seventh, provide supplemental lighting. With less natural light in winter, ducks may experience a drop in egg production. Use artificial lights to extend the day to at least 16 hours. Install 1–60 watt bulbs per 30 square meters, positioned 2 meters above the ducks and covered with shades. Lighting has been shown to boost egg production by up to 20%.
Eighth, encourage water activity. Allow ducks to swim 1–2 times daily, preferably during warmer midday hours. Before swimming, gradually acclimate them to the outside temperature. Only allow swimming if the temperature is above -5°C and the ducks are active.
Ninth, manage density carefully. Keep 8–9 ducks per square meter to help them stay warm through mutual insulation.
Tenth, focus on disease prevention. Maintain cleanliness in the shed, regularly remove waste, and ventilate the area after daytime releases. Isolate any sick ducks immediately and disinfect the area to prevent the spread of disease.
By following these practices, duck farmers can successfully maintain high egg production even in the coldest months.