Indian Runner Ducks and chickens

[dianewhiting]

I have been training my border collie to herd sheep, but the herd and trainer are a long way away so can only get there once a week. In between I'd like to practice herding with ducks, and Indian Runners seem to be the best for this purpose, having seen some displays with them.
I have kept chickens for a long time, and would appreciate advice from the group as to whether the ducks and chickens could be kept together. I am worried that the layers pellets might not suit ducks if they share the food. I currently have five chickens in an enclosure about 12 foot by 12 foot plus indoor area/laying boxes, so there should be sufficient room, but could construct an additional run for the ducks if needs be. The hens come out for free ranging at the stables for an hour a day or so as the local fox is very active and they have to be supervised.
I understand that Indian Runners only need somewhere to "splash" and need not have a pool?
Any advice for this "newbie" welcome. Also, if anyone has a few runners looking for a new home in the Surrey/Middlesex area, I would be interested.
Thanks for any help you can give.

Diane

 

[dorsetduckowner]

Hi Diane, welcome to the forum.

Indian Runners and indeed most ducks are good for herding.

As far as living together I keep my chickens and ducks together and feed them both layers pellets (make sure you get one suitable for both, unmedicated is best).

I would be concerned that the space you have is not really enough to add ducks. Runners like to range and any water source in that small area will turn it into a permanent water park. Even if they dont swim, they will still use the water and it will end up everywhere.

People do say that runners dont 'need' water, but a happy duck is a duck that can submerge and bathe properly. Childrens pools or even something like this is enough: http://www.solwayfeeders.com/products/solway-duck-bath-with-mains-ballcock-p1332-c442.html

Space is your issue though.

Zo

 

[dianewhiting]

Thanks for your reply, Zoe, most helpful. Think I'll have to build an extension......

Diane

 

[Chuck]

The only medicated layers pellets I know of contain Flubenvet which would not harm the ducks surely. No other medication is allowed in layers.
In chick feed there can be and occasionally growers feed too.