What do ducks eat?
Quick Answer
Ducks eat aquatic plants, seeds, insects, small fish, and grains in the wild; bread is harmful and should not be fed to ducks. Their natural diet varies by species but primarily consists of plant matter, invertebrates, and small aquatic creatures found in wetland environments.
Key Takeaways
- Wild ducks are omnivores with diets varying by species and habitat
- Primary foods include aquatic plants, algae, seeds, and small invertebrates
- Bread is harmful to ducks and should never be fed to them
- Dabbling ducks feed at the surface, diving ducks feed underwater
- Ducklings require high-protein diets for proper growth
- Diet changes seasonally based on food availability
Natural Diet by Duck Type
Different duck species have evolved specialized feeding behaviors and dietary preferences based on their habitats and bill shapes.
Dabbling Ducks (Mallards, Teal, Pintails)
These ducks feed primarily at the water's surface or by tipping forward to reach underwater vegetation:
- Aquatic plants: Pondweed, wild rice, sedges, and algae
- Seeds: Smartweed, bulrush, and wild rice seeds
- Insects: Mosquito larvae, midges, and water beetles
- Small crustaceans: Freshwater shrimp and water fleas
Diving Ducks (Canvasback, Redhead, Ring-necked)
These species dive underwater to forage for food in deeper waters:
- Submerged vegetation: Wild celery, pondweed, and water milfoil
- Mollusks: Snails, clams, and mussels
- Small fish: Minnows and fish fry
- Aquatic invertebrates: Crayfish and aquatic worms
Seasonal Diet Changes
Duck diets vary significantly throughout the year based on food availability and nutritional needs:
Spring and Summer (Breeding Season)
During breeding season, ducks require high-protein diets:
- Increased consumption of insects and invertebrates
- Small fish and amphibians for calcium and protein
- Fresh aquatic vegetation for vitamins and minerals
- Females need extra calcium for egg shell production
Fall and Winter
As temperatures drop, ducks focus on high-energy foods:
- Seeds and grains for fat storage
- Nuts and berries when available
- Agricultural grain from harvested fields
- Root tubers and underwater plant bulbs
Duckling Diet
Young ducks have specific nutritional requirements for proper development:
First Few Weeks
- High protein needs: 20-24% protein for rapid growth
- Small insects: Gnats, midges, and mosquito larvae
- Tiny invertebrates: Water fleas and small crustaceans
- Soft plant matter: Tender algae and plant shoots
Foods That Are Harmful to Ducks
Many common foods can be dangerous or deadly to ducks:
Never Feed Ducks:
- Bread: Causes malnutrition and digestive problems
- Crackers and chips: High salt content and empty calories
- Chocolate: Toxic to waterfowl
- Avocado: Contains persin, which is toxic to birds
- Onions and garlic: Can cause digestive upset and anemia
- Moldy or spoiled food: Can cause severe illness
Safe Foods for Wild Ducks (If Permitted)
If local regulations allow feeding waterfowl, these are safer alternatives:
- Cracked corn: Nutritious and easily digestible
- Duck pellets: Specially formulated waterfowl food
- Chopped lettuce: Romaine or leafy greens
- Peas: Fresh or thawed frozen peas
- Oats: Plain rolled oats (not instant)
- Wild bird seed: Mixed seeds appropriate for waterfowl
Environmental Impact of Duck Feeding
Feeding wild ducks can have unintended consequences:
- Overpopulation: Artificial feeding can lead to overcrowding
- Disease spread: Large congregations increase disease transmission
- Water pollution: Uneaten food degrades water quality
- Behavioral changes: Ducks may become dependent on humans
- Habitat damage: Overuse can damage wetland vegetation
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is bread bad for ducks?
Bread lacks essential nutrients ducks need and fills them up without providing proper nutrition, leading to malnutrition. It can also cause digestive problems, water pollution, and aggressive behavior among waterfowl.
Do all ducks eat the same foods?
No, different duck species have evolved different feeding strategies. Dabbling ducks feed at the surface, diving ducks forage underwater, and some species are more specialized for eating fish, plants, or invertebrates.
How much do ducks eat per day?
Adult ducks typically consume 6-8 ounces of food per day, though this varies by species, season, and activity level. During breeding season and winter, they may eat more to meet increased energy demands.
Can ducks eat fish?
Yes, many duck species eat small fish, especially diving ducks and mergansers. Fish provide important protein and fatty acids, particularly during breeding season when ducks need extra nutrition.
Is it legal to feed wild ducks?
Laws vary by location. Many parks and municipalities prohibit feeding waterfowl due to environmental and health concerns. Always check local regulations before feeding any wild animals.
What do domesticated ducks eat?
Domestic ducks should be fed commercial waterfowl feed that provides balanced nutrition. They can also eat vegetables, fruits, and grains as treats, but their primary diet should be formulated duck food.
Wildlife Feeding Supplies
Support wildlife responsibly with proper food:
