CARE AND MANAGEMENT OF LAYING DUCKS 327 



fed for this purpose, they commence laying at from four 

 to six months of age. Ducklings hatched in June or 

 July often lay through the entire winter. They lay well 

 until several years old. Their capacity for winter egg pro- 

 duction is their strongest characteristic. 



Indian Runner eggs are not quite so large as the eggs of 

 other varieties of ducks, but larger than a hen's egg. They 

 are of a dehcate flavor quite unlike that of all the other 

 ducks' eggs. The shell is a beautiful white color with an 

 occasional tint, so that the egg is attractive in appearance. 



Care and Management of Laying Ducks. — After the 

 first of May laying ducks do better if allowed to run. 

 They should be shut up in a pen or inclosure, however, 

 until 8 or 9 a.m., when they will be through laying for the 

 day. 



For winter protection a warm house is necessary. It 

 need not be costly or large. A tight shed, eight feet high 

 in front, four feet high at the back, open to the south will 

 meet all requirements. An earth floor with plenty of straw 

 for bedding can be used. 



Lajong ducks require food that will produce eggs and 

 make shell. The same rations that are fed to laying hens 

 are also suitable for the feeding of ducks. 



Ducks must have shade in hot weather, exercise, and 

 plenty of fresh air. They prefer to stay outside no matter 

 how stormy the weather, but they may be trained to use a 

 house or shed. Poor sleeping quarters, a lack of bedding, 

 or allowing them to sleep out in bad weather, causes rheu- 

 matism, about the only disease to which they are subject. 

 A little care in this one particular will insure against loss 

 of birds. Ducks may be allowed to stay outside except at 

 night during cold or stormy weather. They are hardier 



