In winter, the temperature drops, daylight hours shorten, and ducks often experience a decline in egg production or even stop laying eggs altogether. However, based on years of practical experience, it's possible to maintain an egg hatching rate of over 80% in spring if proper winter management is implemented.
1. **Keep Warm and Prevent Cold**: Ducks perform best in temperatures between 13°C and 20°C, and the minimum should not fall below 6°C. During winter, it's essential to insulate the duck house and protect against cold. Seal any gaps in walls, close doors and windows, especially the northern ones. At night or when temperatures drop, hang straw curtains on the windows and spread dry straw or wheat straw on the floor. Ensure that fresh grass is added before the ducks go to bed each night. Increasing the stocking density to about 8–9 ducks per square meter can also help. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation by opening doors and windows briefly when releasing ducks for water, then closing them again.
2. **Adjust the Diet**: Winter requires more energy for ducks, so increase the amount of corn and other energy-rich feeds. Reduce protein content to 15–17%, but make sure to include green vegetables like cabbage and radishes to supply necessary vitamins.
3. **Careful Feeding**: Feed ducks warm food and water during winter to help conserve body heat. Provide three meals a day, with an extra snack at night. Always ensure access to clean water. Include green feed in their diet. When changing feed types, do so gradually to avoid digestive issues.
4. **Scientific Management**: Let ducks out later in the morning and bring them back earlier in the evening. Limit the number of times they are released to water, and keep each session short. Release them once in the morning and once in the afternoon when there's enough sunlight. Ensure they stay in the water for at least three days. Before releasing them, open the windows to "noise" the ducks—pick them up and let them move around the house until about 80% start calling. If the temperature is too low, gently disturb the ducks to encourage movement, improve appetite, and boost their ability to withstand the cold. If natural light falls below 15 hours, use artificial lighting to supplement. Keep the duck house as quiet as possible to avoid stress.
5. **Disease Prevention**: Ducks have weaker immunity in winter, making them more prone to illness due to poor feeding or management. To prevent this, disinfect the duck house and activity areas weekly. Identify the cause of any illness quickly and treat it promptly. Regular health checks and good hygiene practices are key to maintaining productivity and ensuring healthy egg production.
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