Can I leave my birds on open water during the day and lock them in at night?

While this may be possible for certain domestic species like Mallards and Call Ducks, it is generally not recommended for ornamental ducks. Ornamental species are typically more delicate, shy, and skittish, making them harder to manage in open water settings. Most breeders, including us, keep ornamental ducks in secure aviaries for their safety.

How can I keep my birds safe on open water?

Many breeders successfully keep ornamental waterfowl on open ponds using the following methods:

Clear Shorelines: Remove brush and dense vegetation around the pond to eliminate predator hiding spots. However, in-water cover such as reeds or cattails can offer ducks a place to hide.
Fencing: Installing fencing around the pond can deter land predators.
Flock Safety: Keeping more birds together provides safety in numbers—more eyes to detect danger.
Guardian Species: Larger birds like swans or geese can deter some predators and protect smaller ducks during breeding season.
Predator Control: Learn what predators are common in your area. Use humane traps year-round to control populations of raccoons, opossums, skunks, foxes, bobcats, and coyotes.
Deterrents: Try installing flashing red predator lights or playing a radio at night.
Safe Havens: Floating platforms or islands on the pond provide a place for ducks to escape.

Can I house ornamental ducks with domestic ducks?

In general, no—especially in confined enclosures. Domestic drakes may attempt to mate with ornamental females, which can lead to injury or even death. Ornamental ducks also stress easily, and the presence of larger, more active domestic ducks may negatively affect their health.

If you must keep them together:

Use open water or very large enclosures (minimum 100’x100’)
Ensure there is space for the ornamental ducks to retreat and feel safe.

What size aviary do I need?

Bigger is always better, but good husbandry matters more than sheer space. Essential considerations include:

Clean water source (filters, fresh flow, or regular cleaning)
Dry, hygienic flooring (sand, gravel, or well-drained surfaces)
Perches and plant cover to reduce stress
Compatible species that don’t compete for the same nesting space

One of our functional aviaries measured only 20’x18’ and successfully housed 10 mandarins, 8 greenwing teal, and 3-4 pheasants, thanks to excellent water flow, perches, and drainage.

Can ornamental birds live in a basic pen like chickens?

No. Ornamental ducks need a stimulating, natural environment. A wire cage with a tub of water is insufficient and will lead to stress and possible death. Include perches, vegetation, proper flooring, and clean water to ensure their health.

How do I care for my birds in winter?

We keep our birds outdoors year-round in Tennessee, where winters reach single digits (°F). For more severe climates, consider:

Wrapping aviary sides in heavy plastic
Laying hay on the floor
Adding hay bales for insulation
Moving cold-sensitive species indoors

Species where males and females look alike, or those with year-round coloring (like tree ducks and some teals), are more vulnerable to frostbite and cold. Cold-hardy birds like Mandarins and native North American ducks can withstand harsher climates with minimal protection.

Why can’t my birds fly if I didn’t request pinioned birds?

We usually clip wings, not pinion, unless specifically requested. This is for safety during transport and acclimation. Wing clipping is temporary—new feathers grow back during molt. You can speed this up by gently pulling the clipped feathers, allowing full regrowth in about a month.

How old will my birds be when I receive them?

Most ornamental waterfowl hatch between May and July. Birds are sold fully feathered and adult-sized—typically between 2 and 6 months old. We do not sell ducklings or record exact hatch dates.

Do I need a permit to keep or sell ornamental ducks?

In most U.S. states, you don’t need a permit to keep ornamental species.
Selling native North American birds (like Wood Ducks) often requires a permit.
Foreign species (like Mandarins) usually don’t require permits.

We are licensed at both state and federal levels for all regulated species. Always check your local regulations.

Do my birds need a pond?

Yes, all waterfowl need access to swimming water. If a natural pond isn’t available:

Use a container-style pond (e.g., kiddie pool, trough), but ensure:
- It’s deep enough for swimming
- It has a way for birds to exit easily, especially for flightless or molting birds
Keep water clean—either manually or via overflow systems and filters

Will my birds breed in their first spring?

That depends on species. Birds that color out in their first year—like Mandarins, Wood Ducks, most teals—often breed their first spring. Species that develop coloring in their second year (like mergansers and goldeneyes) may take 2–3 years.

Other factors that affect breeding include:

Size and comfort of enclosure
Nesting availability
Clean water
Low stress levels
Time spent acclimating

What size nesting box does my bird need?

Nest box needs vary by species. Key tips:

Cavity-nesting ducks (e.g., Mandarins, Wood Ducks, Teal) need raised, enclosed boxes—add ramps for pinioned birds.
Ground-nesting ducks prefer two-room boxes with the back for egg-laying. The nesting chamber should be just large enough for the hen.
We offer high-quality boxes made of 100% recycled plastic:
- Mold/mildew resistant
- Easy to clean
- UV and water-resistant
- Naturally cooler white color
- Hardware-free design

For more detailed help, feel free to contact us at mallardlanefarms@gmail.com. We’re always happy to assist you in building a thriving waterfowl habitat.

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Can I leave my birds on open water during the day and lock them in at night?