Storey's Guide to Raising Ducks. By Dave Holderread - 358 Pages - Revised 2nd Edition
Dave Holderread provides all of the information you need to raise ducks successfully, covering everything from choosing the right breeds (including rare breeds and hybrid ducks) to breeding and rearing practices, feeding, housing, health care, butchering, and much more. This thoroughly revised and updated second edition includes coverage of more breeds plus expanded information on facilities for ducklings, health and disease treatment, marketing, record keeping, colour genetics and rare breed conservation.
A perfect choice for many farmers, ducks produce eggs and meat efficiently, thrive in inclement weather, help control insect and snail populations, and they’re also entertaining and beautiful. From selecting the breed that’s right for you to rearing, housing, and caring for your birds, Storey’s Guide to Raising Ducks provides the essential advice and practical know-how you need to keep a thriving flock.
• Selection of Breeds.
• Expanded coverage of 23 domestic North American breeds.
• Preview of natural and artificial incubation.
• Revised and expanded guide to duck colours.
• Up-to-date information on disease prevention and treatment.
• Guidelines for showing.
• Tips on rare breed conservation.
‘A deep and useful resource for anyone from beginner to advanced breeder… jam-packed with information available nowhere else’
D. Phillip Sponenberg DVM PhD American Livestock Breeds Conservancy
CONTENTS:
External Features and Behaviour
Choosing the Right Duck
Bantam Breeds
Lightweight Breeds
Mediumweight Breeds
Heavyweight Breeds
The Importance of Preserving Rare Breeds
Hybrid Ducks
Understanding Duck Colours
Acquiring Stock
Incubation
Rearing Ducklings
Managing Adult Ducks
Understanding Feeds
Butchering
Health and Physical Problems
Showtime.