Ducks are adorable and charming creatures that have become increasingly popular as pets and additions to homesteads. However, before bringing home a duck, it’s essential to consider the cost involved. So, how much does a duck cost?
Read on as we delve into the various factors that influence the price of ducks, helping you understand how much it might cost to own these delightful waterfowl.
How Much Do Ducks Cost?
On average, expect to pay anywhere between $10 to $30 for a live duckling. Fully grown ducks typically cost $20 to $50, depending on their breed and quality. Specialized or rare breeds can be more expensive, with prices exceeding $100.
Baby ducks (ducklings) can range from $6 at local farms and fleet stores to $25-$30 per duck from specialty breeders.
Common breeds like Pekin ducks cost between $7 and $10 per bird. Call ducks, known for their small size, can be found for $20 to $50 each.
Rare or specialty breeds may come with a higher price tag. Prices can range from $20 to over $200 per duck.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Ducks
The cost of a duck can vary depending on the following several factors.
Breed
Popular breeds like Pekin ducks are generally more affordable, while rarer or specialty breeds might command a higher price.
Here’s a table showing different duck breeds and their average costs.
| Duck Breed | Average Cost (USD) |
| Pekin | $5 – $10 |
| Khaki Campbell | $5 – $15 |
| Indian Runner | $5 – $10 |
| Muscovy | $5 – $20 |
| Rouen | $10 – $15 |
| Cayuga | $10 – $20 |
| Swedish | $10 – $20 |
| Saxony | $15 – $25 |
| Magpie | $15 – $25 |
| Buff Orpington | $15 – $30 |
| Crested | $20 – $30 |
| Welsh Harlequin | $20 – $35 |
| Silver Appleyard | $20 – $40 |
| Blue Swedish | $20 – $40 |
| Golden Cascade | $20 – $40 |
| Aylesbury | $25 – $40 |
| Call | $25 – $50 |
| Ancona | $25 – $50 |
| Runner Hybrid | $25 – $50 |
| Cayuga Hybrid | $25 – $50 |
| Mallard Hybrid | $30 – $60 |
| Indian Runner Hybrid | $30 – $60 |
| Muscovy Hybrid | $30 – $60 |
| Welsh Harlequin Hybrid | $30 – $60 |
| Rouen Hybrid | $30 – $60 |
| Black Swedish Hybrid | $30 – $60 |
| Magpie Hybrid | $30 – $60 |
| Crested Hybrid | $30 – $60 |
Age
The age of the duck also affects its cost. Ducklings are usually cheaper compared to mature ducks.
Ducklings (0-8 weeks): Ducklings are the least expensive, as they require care and feeding before they mature. On average, ducklings may range from $2 to $5 per bird.
Young ducks (8-20 weeks): At this stage, ducks have grown considerably and require less care. Young ducks’ prices vary, but you might expect to pay around $5 to $10 per bird.
Mature ducks (20-36 weeks): Mature ducks are fully grown and can start laying eggs (if they are females). The price of mature ducks can range from $10 to $20 per bird, depending on breed and quality.
Breeding pairs: The price can be significantly higher if you’re interested in purchasing a breeding pair. Breeding pairs are sold together, and the cost may range from $30 to $50 or more, depending on the breed and the seller.
Source
How much does a duck cost? Where you purchase your duck can impact its price. Local farm and fleet stores, breeders, farm supply stores, and online platforms might have different prices.
Live ducks sourced directly from local farms or breeders often come at higher prices than mass-produced or commercial sources.
These ducks are raised in smaller quantities and may belong to specific breeds known for their quality or uniqueness. The prices can vary depending on the ducks’ breed, age, and overall health.
Commercial hatcheries are known for mass-producing ducks for the poultry industry. They generally offer ducks at lower prices due to economies of scale.
These ducks are often common breeds raised for meat production. The prices may vary based on the region and specific hatchery.
Online marketplaces or classified platforms can be a source for purchasing live ducks. Prices on such platforms can vary significantly depending on the seller, location, breed, and demand.
Livestock auctions are another avenue for purchasing live ducks. Prices at auctions depend on the number of buyers, the quality of the ducks, and the bidding competition.
Additional Expenses When Buying Ducks
Owning ducks involves more than just the initial purchase price. Here are some additional costs to consider:
Housing and Enclosure
Duck houses or coops can range from simple shelters to more elaborate structures. The price can vary from around $100 for a basic DIY coop or small shelter to several hundred dollars for larger, professionally built houses or custom designs.
Factors like size, material, and features like nesting boxes, ventilation, and predator-proofing can affect the price.
Ducks require a safe and secure enclosure to protect them from predators and provide adequate space to roam. The cost of fencing or enclosure materials can vary significantly depending on the size of the area you want to enclose and the type of fencing you choose.
Wire mesh or chicken wire are commonly used materials for duck enclosures. The price for fencing materials can range from $1 to $5 per linear foot, and additional costs may include posts, gates, and other accessories.
Ducks also require access to water for swimming and bathing. If you don’t have a natural water source like a pond, you may consider building a small duck pond or providing a suitable water feature.
The cost of building a pond can vary greatly depending on its size, design, and any additional features, such as filtration systems. Small preformed pond kits can range from $50 to $200, while larger custom-built ponds can cost several hundred dollars or more.
Feed
Ducks consume about 0.2 to 0.3 pounds (90 to 135 grams) of feed per day. This estimate is for adult ducks, and the feed requirements may differ for ducklings.
Duck feed consists of a combination of grains, protein sources, and supplements. The cost per pound or kilogram of feed can range from $0.30 to $0.50 or more, depending on the quality and availability of feed in your area.
Considering the average daily feed consumption and the cost per pound, the approximate average feed costs for raising ducks can range from $0.06 to $0.15 per day per duck. This estimate is for adult ducks and may differ for ducklings or during different stages of growth.
Veterinary Care
Ducks may require regular check-ups to ensure their health and address potential issues. These check-ups can involve physical examinations, vaccinations, and preventive treatments. The cost of routine check-ups can vary, but it is advisable to budget around $50 to $100 per visit.
Ducks may need vaccinations to protect against avian influenza or Newcastle disease. Vaccination costs can vary based on the specific vaccines but expect to spend around $5 to $20 per vaccine per duck.
Ducks can be susceptible to parasites like worms, mites, and lice. The cost of parasite control measures such as deworming or parasite treatments can range from $10 to $30 per treatment.
In case of injuries, illnesses, or other health issues, veterinary care costs can significantly vary based on the severity of the condition and required treatments. Diagnostic tests, medications, surgeries, or hospitalization can increase overall expenses.
So, How Much Does a Duck Cost?
A duck’s average price ranges from $10 to $50. The actual cost of owning a duck can vary based on breed, age, and source. Rare breeds can be more expensive. Always consider the cost of housing, food, and maintenance before buying a duck.