Eight key technical points you must master for raising ducks in summer

Summer is the golden period for raising meat-type ducklings, but a high-temperature, high-humidity environment easily causes the manure in duck houses to rot and ferment, breeds pathogenic microorganisms and triggers epidemic diseases, which is detrimental to the growth of ducklings. To improve the survival rate of ducklings in summer, the following "eight musts" must be achieved:

First, reduce the stocking density. Prevent the duck flock from crowding, piling up and accumulating heat in a stuffy pen, and add extra water basins and feed troughs.

Second, adjust the feed formula. The feed formulas for ducklings at different growth stages vary, and the summer feed formula should, on the premise of meeting all essential amino acids, keep the protein level as low as possible to reduce heat produced by feed digestion.

Third, change the rearing method. It is advisable to adopt net rearing, which reduces ducklings' contact with manure, reduces opportunities for disease transmission, lowers the incidence of disease, and can also reduce the flock's nutrient consumption and heat production.

Fourth, optimize feeding times. Feed as much as possible in the early morning and at 8-10 at night, during the cooler periods.

Fifth, reduce sunlight exposure. Build tall and spacious duck houses; during high temperatures, water can be sprinkled on the roof or sprayed as a fine mist, and the interior ceiling can be whitewashed with lime to improve ventilation.

Sixth, supply fresh feed. During periods of high temperature and high humidity, feed left standing too long, or feed stagnating too long in the trough, will ferment and spoil, so a supply of fresh feed should be ensured.

Seventh, keep the environment quiet. During hot periods, avoid sudden fright and noise disturbing the duck flock, and keep the flock's activity level to a minimum.

Eighth, carry out disinfection and prevent epidemic diseases. Do a good job of disinfection, prevent flies and mosquitoes from breeding, and keep the duck flock free from harassment by pests.