KEEPING DUCKS HEALTHY AND PRODUCTIVE: HYGIENE AND DISINFECTION
Keeping high hygiene standards and regular disinfection practices are essential to prevent disease and ensure duck health and productivity. Inadequate hygiene measures can lead to the spread of infectious diseases, which can have serious repercussions on duck productivity and well-being.
Comfort and environment
Density is the first criterion to regulate. To limit stress and aggressive behavior, the density must give to the ducks enough space to move around freely and express their natural behaviors. Environmental conditions are also essential to guarantee the animals’ well-being and comfort. Providing a sufficient level of ventilation, adapted to the specific needs of each production phase, allows to reduce humidity and ammonia levels, which can cause respiratory problems for the animals.
Some kinds of litter are particularly suitable for duck breeding. In any case, the litter should be clean, dry and absorbent. At Grimaud Frères, we recommend to use straw or wood shavings for exemple. The frequency of bedding replacement will also have a major impact on duck comfort and performance. Mulching, by adding fresh litter on top of the litter already present in the building, allows the lower layers to decompose and generate heat, which can eliminate certain pathogens.
Feeding and drinking systems
Ducks will perform better if they have constant access to fresh drinking water. Dirty, stagnant water can generate pathogens and spread disease. This is also why water troughs need to be cleaned and disinfected regularly.
It is also strongly recommended to store feed in a dry, clean place to avoid contamination by rodents or mold.
Cleaning and disinfection
One of the basics of cleaning and disinfection is the regular removal of excrement to reduce ammonia levels and prevent the spread of disease.
To maintain a clean environment, spot cleaning of dirty areas is necessary. A more thorough cleaning of the duck breeding building must also be implemented. This involves removing all litter, cleaning floors and washing walls during the cleaning and disinfection downtime. It is a period during which the facilities are completely emptied of all animals and thoroughly cleaned. This practice aims to reduce the presence of germs, parasites and viruses, thus improving biosecurity and duck health.
Biosecurity measures
Biosecurity is an essential and effective factor. Its implementation and application will significantly limit the spread of infectious diseases. In this way, you can maximize your ducks’ performance. Installing foot baths containing disinfectant at the entrance of the breeding site, limiting access to essential employees, and respecting breeding clothing are key biosecurity tools.
Finally, monitoring duck behavior is the most effective way to identify and rapidly treat any signs of disease or stress. Lethargy, a change in feeding behavior or abnormal movements are signals that should attract attention. Keep a detailed health record for ducks, and a log of cleaning and disinfection activities to ensure regular and effective hygiene practices.
Maintaining high hygiene standards and implementing regular disinfection practices are essential to keeping ducks healthy and productive. By creating a clean and safe environment, ensuring good feed and water quality, and applying biosecurity measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of disease and improve the overall well-being of your ducks, maximizing their performance.
