A group of ducks in the breeding process often experiences a drop in egg production due to factors such as feeding habits, individual differences, and age. As a result, approximately 10–20% of the ducks may produce very few or no eggs at all. To reduce the cost of raising these ducks and improve overall egg production, it's advisable to cull low-yield ducks during the laying period based on specific physical and behavioral characteristics.
Here are some key indicators that can help identify low-yield ducks:
1. **Age**: Ducks that have been in the breeding cycle for more than three years typically show a decline in productivity.
2. **Feathering**: Ducks with early feathering, long-lasting molting periods, or frequent shedding tend to be less productive.
3. **Cloaca Condition**: A small, wrinkled, and dry cloaca is often a sign of poor egg-laying performance.
4. **Head and Neck Structure**: Ducks with thick, short necks, narrow mouths, and flat beaks that don’t protrude upward may not be high producers.
5. **Abdomen and Pubic Bones**: A small, hard abdomen and a pubic bone that can only fit two fingers indicate lower egg production, while high-yield ducks usually allow three to five fingers.
6. **Body Appearance**: Ducks with narrow chests, rough feathers, and a dull, unfluffy appearance are likely to be low performers.
7. **Body Proportions**: Short-bodied ducks with wings and legs that are only 3–4 fingers apart are generally less productive compared to those with longer body frames.
8. **Weight and Behavior**: Overweight, lazy, or gluttonous ducks often lay fewer eggs.
9. **Leg Movement**: When holding a duck by the neck, low-yield ducks tend to move their legs up and down, whereas high-yield ducks keep their legs straight without swinging.
10. **Health Issues**: Ducks suffering from lameness, deformed eggs, soft-shelled eggs, or poor feathering should also be culled.
By identifying and removing these low-yield ducks, farmers can optimize resources, improve flock efficiency, and maintain higher egg production rates. This practice not only reduces feed and care costs but also ensures that only the most productive ducks remain in the breeding program.
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