What methods are there to extend the peak laying period of laying ducks?

The laying performance of laying ducks is influenced not only by breed, feed, management techniques and age, but also varies greatly between individuals. Therefore, they can be identified according to body type and appearance.

High-yielding laying ducks have large, protruding and spirited eyes, a slightly small head, a slender and long neck, a long body, a broad back, a broad and deep chest, full and balanced development, and agile movement. When lifted by the neck, both feet point straight down and do not move. Low-yielding ducks have small, non-protruding and dull eyes, a large head and thick neck, a short body, and relatively narrow back and chest, and move slowly. When lifted by the neck, both feet curl up.

After a high-yielding duck eats its fill, the cervical section of the esophagus swells and hangs down. This indicates that it holds more feed, has sufficient nutrients, and can lay at a high rate. The opposite is a sign of low yield.

Whether newly laying ducks or old ducks over two years old, before the start of laying their feathers are all thick, tight and fine. After the start of laying, high-yielding ducks absorb most of their nutrients for egg production and little for body growth, so their feathers gradually lose their luster and become messy and dull. If the feathers on the top of the head, neck and back become sparse, it indicates that it mates frequently with drakes and is also a sign of high yield. Because of the long time spent squatting to lay, its belly feathers are dirty and untidy. Low-yielding ducks have messy and lusterless feathers before the start of laying.

During the laying period, high-yielding ducks have a large and soft belly, full and drooping buttocks that do not drag on the ground, and a large, moist, soft cloaca in a half-open state. Low-yielding ducks have a small and hard belly, and a tight, small, contracted cloaca that is wrinkled and relatively dry.

During the laying period, high-yielding ducks have a wide distance between the pubic bones, which feel soft and elastic when pressed and can accommodate 3 to 4 fingers. The width between the pubic bones and the end of the breastbone reaches 12 to 13 cm, while that of low-yielding ducks is less than 10 cm.