Although ducks and geese like water, they still need protection and shelter from bad weather, such as driving rain, direct sunshine and strong winds. You'll therefore need to make sure they have suitable indoor housing that's warm, dry and well-ventilated. Here's what you'll need to give them:
- A big enough entrance - this should allow your ducks and geese to pass through easily without having to crouch. More than one entrance helps avoid bullying and encourages them to use the outdoor area.
- Space - there should be enough space inside the house for your ducks and geese to move around easily, exercise, stretch their wings and carry out their normal behaviours. We recommend providing at least one square metre of floor space for every two/three ducks, or one goose.
- Covered flooring - the floor should be covered with dry material such as wood shavings or straw to give them a comfortable resting area. You should top this up or replace it when needed.
- Nest boxes - female ducks and geese may look for an isolated position to lay eggs, and prefer somewhere safe and secluded, such as an individual nest box. Nest boxes should be draught-free and lined with clean, dry, comfortable nesting material such as straw or wood shavings.
You also should give your ducks and geese food and water in their house. Clean the house and everything inside regularly and disinfect it to remove parasites.
Find out how to create a good outdoor environment for pet ducks and geese, and read more about caring for pet ducks and geese to learn about their diet, company and health and welfare.
