Newly hatched ducklings need a non-medicated duckling or waterfowl starter feed with about 18-20% protein, fresh water in a container deep enough to dip their bills, and added niacin. Feed it from day one and keep it available all day. Chick starter also works if you add niacin, but check that it is non-medicated.
The First Day
A newly hatched duckling lives off the yolk it absorbed before hatching for the first 24-48 hours. Leave hatchlings in the incubator or warm brooder until they are dry and active, then move them to a brooder with feed and water ready.
What to Feed in the First Weeks
Starter feed (week 1-2)
- Choose a non-medicated crumble or pellet labeled for ducklings, waterfowl or chicks.
- Look for roughly 18-20% protein. Too much protein for too long can contribute to growth problems in some breeds.
- Ducklings need more niacin (vitamin B3) than chicks to grow strong legs. If your feed does not list added niacin, sprinkle brewer’s yeast over the feed or ask your vet about a supplement. Niacin deficiency can cause weak or bowed legs.
Why non-medicated?
Medicated chick starter contains a drug against coccidiosis. Ducklings eat and drink far more than chicks, so they take in more of the drug, and many keepers and vets advise using non-medicated feed. Ask your vet if you have concerns about disease in your area.
Grower feed (about 2-3 weeks onward)
Move to a lower-protein grower feed of about 15-16% around 2 to 3 weeks old, then to a maintenance or layer feed as they approach adulthood.
Water Matters as Much as Food
- Ducklings must have water whenever they eat, to wash feed down and clear their nostrils.
- Use a waterer deep enough to dunk their bills but shallow enough that they cannot climb in and chill. Day-old ducklings can get cold and wet quickly.
- Change water at least daily, because ducklings make a mess.
Treats
Small amounts of chopped greens such as romaine, kale and chard are a good treat from about a week old, and so are peas and finely chopped herbs. Keep treats to a small share of the diet. Offer a bit of fine grit along with greens.
Do not feed
- Bread, crackers or chips, which fill ducklings without feeding them
- Medicated feed
- Salty, sugary or moldy foods
- Chocolate, avocado or raw dry beans
Signs Your Ducklings Are Doing Well
Healthy ducklings are active, eat eagerly, have clean vents and grow quickly. Call a vet if you see leg weakness, lethargy, a swollen belly or watery droppings that last more than a day.
Bottom Line
Feed newly hatched ducks a non-medicated 18-20% protein starter with niacin, give them plenty of water, and switch to grower feed at about two to three weeks. For related help read what to feed newly hatched ducklings. Check with an avian or farm vet for advice about your birds.
