Description
At Dovecote Farm, we don't do large numbers, we don't do factory level ducking production, and certainly don't do any cross breeds !
We do however raise what we believe to be some of the best Indian Runner ducks in the UK -
We only hatch in small numbers, typically 15 or so ducklings at a time, all are hand reared and cared for in those small groups.
All of our birds are from unrelated, exhibition quality parents that have our entire farm to roam free over - happy ducks mean happy (and healthy) ducklings
Originally we started to raise Apricots, but we also have a great choice of others including gorgeous mallards, grey and white, both ducks and drakes.
On the farm here they have full run over our 10 acres, and (when not sleeping!) are constantly working through the grass and undergrowth all around the farm here, keeping all of the nasties away.
They will live well alongside chickens and other birds, as Indian Runners will generally keep themselves to themselves in their own small groups.
Unlike chickens, they won't dig holes in your gardens or flower beds, preferring just to forage through grass or undergrowth for the bugs !
As they cannot fly, you dont need to have tall walls or fences, a couple of feet high will ensure that they dont stray too far
For the welfare and health of the ducklings, unlike some "factory farms" we choose not to hatch during the colder winter months.
As we are one of the very few breeders of Apricot runners in the UK, our ducklings are in very high demand, we may not have sexed juvenile birds available all through the season.
For collection, please bring some suitably sized boxes or carriers to transport the birds - Dark boxes are best, allowing the ducks to settle and relax during the journey.
None of our ducklings require additional heat, or to be fed on specialist duckling food - they are suitable to be housed outdoors, and fed on normal DUCK & GOOSE Grower feed.
They are available as unsexed youngsters for £30 each, or as suggested minimum 4 for £110
They are very social birds, so this is the minimum size group we would recommend.
FULL DETAILS ARE AVAILABLE ON OUR MAIN WEBSITE -
www.dovecotefarm.net