Why ducks earn their keep in the garden

Ducks are not just charming; they are genuinely useful on a smallholding. A small flock will happily hoover up slugs, snails and other garden pests, turning them into rich, large eggs. Unlike chickens, ducks don't scratch up beds or create dust baths, but they do make a mess with water. They are sociable, hardy and surprisingly good foragers. However, they need more than a makeshift shelter and a washing-up bowl. To thrive, they require secure housing, constant access to clean water and fencing that keeps foxes out. If you can meet those needs, a few backyard ducks will reward you with eggs, slug control and endless entertainment.

Choosing the right breed for eggs and slug patrol

Not all ducks are equal. For eggs, Khaki Campbells and Indian Runners are prolific layers, often producing 250–300 eggs a year. Indian Runners are particularly active foragers and will patrol the garden for slugs with real enthusiasm. Pekins are heavier and calmer, laying well but less inclined to hunt. Muscovies are excellent slug eaters and quieter, though they lay fewer eggs and are technically a different species. If you want a dual-purpose flock, a mix of Khaki Campbells and Indian Runners works well. Avoid keeping more than one drake per four to six ducks, as excess males can stress the females. Also consider noise: females quack loudly, so check with neighbours before committing.

Housing and shelter: keeping them safe

Foxes are the biggest threat to backyard ducks. A secure house, locked from dusk until dawn, is non-negotiable. Ducks don't roost like chickens, so provide a floor-level house with a solid door and a bolt. Allow at least one square metre per duck inside, with dry straw or shavings for bedding. Ventilation is important, but avoid draughts at floor level. Outside, a covered run of two to three square metres per duck gives them space to move and forage safely. Add shade in summer, as ducks can overheat. A house raised on legs with a ramp is ideal, but make sure the ramp has grip. If you have a pond, that's a bonus, but it must have an easy exit ramp for ducklings and adults.

• Secure door: bolted at night to keep foxes out.
• Dry bedding: straw or shavings, changed weekly.
• Ventilation: high-level, but no draughts at floor level.
• Space: at least one square metre per duck inside.

Water: the non-negotiable

Ducks need water far more than chickens do. They must be able to submerge their heads to keep their eyes and nostrils clean. A paddling pool, a large tub or a purpose-built duck pool works well, but it must be emptied and refilled regularly. Stagnant water spreads disease. For drinking, use a dispenser that keeps water clean, and place it away from the pool to reduce mud. Ducklings need shallow water with stones or marbles for safety. Expect puddles and mud – it's part of the deal. Position water sources away from your house and patio, and consider a gravel or woodchip area around the pool to manage the mess.

Fencing and garden management

Ducks are not easy to herd, so fencing must be reliable. A 1.2-metre high fence with wire buried at the base will deter foxes. Electric netting is excellent for temporary runs, allowing you to rotate ducks around the garden for slug control. But be aware: ducks will eat tender seedlings, lettuce and young brassicas. Protect vegetables with netting or keep ducks in a dedicated area. They also muddy the ground around water sources. A rotation system – moving them every few days – prevents damage and keeps them interested. Let them out in the evening when slugs are active, but always supervise and lock them up afterwards.

Feeding, health and egg collection

Foraging alone won't provide balanced nutrition. Feed a commercial duck pellet, not chicken feed, as ducks need more niacin. Supplement with grit and crushed oyster shell for strong eggshells. Kitchen scraps like lettuce, peas and oats are fine in moderation, but avoid bread. Collect eggs daily, preferably early morning, to prevent them being eaten or trampled. Duck eggs are larger and richer than hen eggs, perfect for baking. Watch for health issues: bumblefoot from hard surfaces, worms, and avian flu. Keep bedding clean and water fresh. With good care, ducks will lay from spring through autumn, slowing in winter. They live eight to ten years, so this is a long-term commitment – but a rewarding one.