RATIONS AND METHODS OF FEEDING 343 



ducks, although they require cleaning oftener than they do 

 with the chicks. 



It is a mistaken idea that ducks require a pond or creek in 

 which to swim, although this is good for the breeders. The 

 only water the young should have is plenty to drink. They 

 will grow much faster than if they are allowed to swim. There 

 is also danger of their being caught by turtles, minks, etc. 

 The breeders should be kept in a yard or pen until 9 or 10 

 o'clock each morning, or until they have laid, or they are likely 

 to lay their eggs in the water and lose or break them. Both 





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Fig. 112. — Geese in a pond. Geese should have water. Note goose house 

 in the background. 



old and young ducks need plenty of shade. If there is no tree 

 shade to be had, it is a good plan to cover some frames with 

 burlap or to build sheds for them. They do not need as warm 

 buildings as do hens, but their houses require more ventilation. 

 Dirt or sand floors are preferable, and they need plenty of 

 bedding. This should consist of shavings, sawdust, or straw. 

 The litter should be removed often or more clean litter put on 

 top to keep the floor dry. 



As ducks naturally eat large quantities of meat in the form 

 of worms they should be furnished plenty of meat scraps. 



