Chicks & Ducklings When Can They Live Together?

[FowlPlayMaster]

Ive raised chicks before, but this year, Im adding ducklings to the mix! I know they should have separate brooders since ducklings are so messybut is that really necessary? And once theyre big enough, can I just move them into the same pen together?

I plan to get chicks first, then ducklings a few weeks later. Since ducklings grow so fast, I figure theyll catch up quickly. Would love to hear from anyone who has raised bothhow did you handle the transition?

[FlockVoyager]

Some people brood them together with raised waterers and constant bedding changes, but it's a lot of work. If you want easier care, separate them early on.

[FowlAfficionado]

I raised mine together, but I used two separate water stations,one deep for ducks and one shallow for chicks. It worked well, but cleaning was a daily struggle!

[ClutchCrafter]

Yes, separate brooders are best! Ducklings are just too messy for chicks. Once they feather out, you can try introducing them gradually.

[CoopSorcerer]

Definitely separate brooders! Ducks turn everything into a swamp, and chicks need dry bedding. Once feathered, they can share space as long as you manage the wet areas.

[ChickadeeChampion]

If you introduce them gradually and provide dry spots for the chicks, they should be fine together after the brooder phase. Ducks just love making puddles!

[EggSeeker]

I've done this before! Ducks and chicks can live together once fully feathered, but make sure they have plenty of dry areas since ducks love to splash water everywhere.

[HappyHens]

Ducks grow fast! If your chicks are already a few weeks old, the ducks will likely catch up in size within no time. Just keep an eye on their interactions.

[EggWiseScholar]

Ive raised chicks before, but this year, Im adding ducklings to the mix! I know they should have separate brooders since ducklings are so messybut is that really necessary? And once theyre big enough, can I just move them into the same pen together?

I plan to get chicks first, then ducklings a few weeks later. Since ducklings grow so fast, I figure theyll catch up quickly. Would love to hear from anyone who has raised bothhow did you handle the transition?

I had a bad experience with ducks and chicks together,my ducks were too rough, and the chicks got stressed. If you mix them, make sure there's plenty of space!

[OliviaOrpington]

Ducklings grow at lightning speed compared to chicks! If you stagger their ages by 3-4 weeks, they should be about the same size when you combine them.