54 



Ducks as Egg-Producers. 



[Apr., 



DUCKS AS EGG-PRODUCERS. 



Oscar C. Brown, B.Sc. (Agric). 



With th- high cost of labour and the general depreciation in 

 the saleable value of their principal products, farmers are finding 

 it increfi si] J •-'■]}' necessary to look around for every possible source 

 of incoiii;. aiid to concentrate on those branches of the farm 

 which require the minimum of labour. In these circumstances 

 it is thought that farmers and all occupiers of grass or orchard 

 land might profitably consider the possibilities of ducks as egg 

 producers. With proper management the labour expenses are 

 small and the returns are regular. There is likely to be an 

 increased demand for well bred stock birds of the best laying 

 strains, and duck egg production can be easily made tlie source 

 of a regular weekly income. 



Considerable advance has been made lately in the science and 

 practice of egg production. Many farmers, realising the 

 increased economic value of poultry, now recognise them as a 

 distinct branch of the farm, and give proper attention to their 

 management. This advance, however, has been made with one 

 section only, for whilst hens have received greatly increased 

 attention, ducks have been neglected. It is not suggested that 

 ducks should in any vv^ay replace hens, but that both can be 

 kept so long as separate sleeping accommodation is provided. 



Swimming water is not necessary ; in some circumstances it 

 may be a disadvantage ; the best laying breeds lay quite as well 

 without it, and their eggs are as fertile. The general dishke of 

 the strong, qreen duck egg is sometimes quoted as an objection 

 to ducks as egg producers ; this is immaterial, as well bred ducks 

 of suitable breeds lay pearly white eggs which have a ready sale. 

 There is also a doubt whether the market can absorb a large 

 number of duck eggs; this remains to be proved, but at present 

 there appears to be no reason for anticipating a greater difficulty 

 in disposiniJ- of the fresh, clean, white duck egg than of the hen 

 egg. There will of course be seasonal gluts just as with hen eggs. 



Advantages of Ducks as Egg-producers. 



Management. — Ducks require less attention than hens : feeding 

 is less frequent and more simple. This is especially the case 

 where grass range is available. 



Housing. — There is no need for an expensive house or 

 scratching shed. If a house is provided it can be of the simplest 



