So happy, broody duck

[happy hen]

I keep miniature appleyard ducks, they're great mothers ....the trick is getting them to nest where it's safe. Mine free range so that's not easy, however I have a small spare chicken/duck house. I keep it shut most of the time, a few years ago I left it open with bedding in expecting one of my bantams to take up residence . The ducks loved it so now I open it up in the spring with dried leaves & straw in, 4th year running I have a broody duck on a dozen eggs in there. Not 100% sure if it's the same duck, I do know there was more than one laying in there.
The sight of a mother duck leading her brood round the garden is wonderful

[dorsetduckowner]

Ahhh, I agree! Wonderful
Sight! I do the same with spare houses pictures would be lovely if you have any.

[happy hen]

IMG_20180424_220705.jpg (58.08 KiB) Viewed 2020 times

[dorsetduckowner]

She is beautiful

[happy hen]

Thank you, I have 5 ducks & a drake. Fertility is good, even with posted eggs, I'm sure it helps that I'm lucky enough to have a stream running through the garden.

[Marigold]

Yes that must make all the difference when keeping ducks, I would be tempted if we had a stream. As it is, we have a largish garden pond with no water running though it, which pairs of mallards always fancy as a nest site in Spring. Unfortunately we have to send the dog out to chase them away, or it would get badly polluted and out of balance. Still, she enjoys chasing them and it's good exercise, nobody is harmed!
When is your lovely duck due to hatch her babies?