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If you can find something made for waterfowl, that would be perfect. The first 2 weeks 18-20 % protein. The next 2 months 15-16% protein. Then the protein level can be dropped down until they start to lay.
Chick starter is reputed to work well, but you will have to add niacin. If you buy a bag of chick starter, you can keep feeding that until you use it up, but after 2 weeks, add some rolled oats to drop the total protein level a little bit.
I have to make due with what I can find around here, and the choices are pretty slim. I start the ducklings for 2 weeks on game bird starter (which is 28% protein), then when they turn 2 weeks old, they get switched to chick starter. Both are medicated with Amprollum.
I use an all purpose poultry feed to cut the protein to the correct level.
I can't find any feed that isn't "vegetarian" and ducks aren't vegetarians, so I buy cheap dry cat food which is made with grain and fish. I feed a small amount every day to the adults.
Everybody gets a pinch of brewer's yeast mixed into their food.
At 1 week of age, I give the ducklings grit and then the next day I start them on tiny bits of greenery snipped small. I feed tender grass and clover. I've got chard planted for them, and they will get that as soon as the plants are big enough.
Originally Posted by Patrick
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