Are Call Ducks good parents?

Answered by Tom Adger

Call Ducks are known for being good parents, which is quite unique among duck breeds. Unlike many larger duck breeds, Calls will actually sit on their eggs and mother their ducklings. This makes them excellent candidates for anyone looking to raise ducks and witness the entire process of hatching and raising ducklings.

As a bantam breed, Calls are small in size, making them ideal for backyard or small-scale poultry keeping. Their petite stature also contributes to their ability to be attentive and caring parents. They are known to be very protective of their eggs and ducklings, ensuring their safety and well-being.

In terms of egg production, Call Ducks are not the most prolific layers among duck breeds. However, they still lay a respectable number of eggs, with females typically laying up to 75 eggs per year. The eggs are usually white or green-tinted, adding a touch of variety to your egg collection.

One of the advantages of keeping Call Ducks as pets is their gentle and friendly nature. They are known to be sociable and enjoy human interaction, making them great companions. Their small size also makes them easier to handle and care for compared to larger duck breeds.

In my personal experience, I have found Call Ducks to be exceptional parents. I once had a pair of Calls that successfully hatched and raised a clutch of ducklings. It was a joy to witness the mother duck diligently sitting on her eggs, turning them regularly and ensuring their warmth. Once the ducklings hatched, she was always by their side, guiding them and teaching them how to forage for food.

It is important to note that while Calls are generally good parents, there can be individual variation in their parenting skills. Some ducks may exhibit better maternal instincts than others. Therefore, it is essential to select ducks from reputable breeders who prioritize good parenting traits in their breeding programs.

Call Ducks are indeed good parents. Their small size, gentle nature, and willingness to sit on eggs and mother their ducklings make them excellent choices for anyone interested in witnessing the entire process of duck hatching and rearing. Whether kept as pets or shown in exhibitions, Calls can provide a delightful experience for duck enthusiasts.