Commercial Shetland duck farming business is less popular, because it is actually a critically endangered breed of domestic duck. But commercial Shetland duck farming can be a great way for recovering this breed, and at the same time it can be a very good and profitable business idea.
The breed was originated from the Shetland Island in the very north of Scotland. And it is thought to have developed from the Pomeranian duck or from the Swedish Blue duck, mainly due to the appearance of these birds.
Today, the Shetland duck is considered as one of the rarest breed of domestic duck and it requires special attention to conserve. Commercial Shetland duck farming can help to increase their number and at the same time it can be a very good business idea.
How to Start Shetland Duck Farming
Starting commercial Shetland duck farming business is as easy as starting a duck farming business with any other domestic duck breeds. They are very strong and hardy birds and they generally require less caring and other management.
So, starting commercial Shetland duck farming business is relatively easy. Here we are trying to describe more information about starting and operating a Shetland duck farming business from purchasing birds to caring and marketing.
Purchase Ducks
First of all, you have to purchase very good quality, healthy and disease free birds for starting Shetland duck farming business. You can purchase either ducklings or mature birds for starting the business.
You can search and purchase the breed from any of your nearest duck breeding centers or existing duck farms.
You can also ask for help from an expert while purchasing ducks if you are a beginner. Also consider searching your local online classified websites for purchasing ducks.
Housing
Making a good housing facilities is important for Shetland duck farming business. Because a good house not only helps the birds to stay healthy, but also helps them to stay safe from all types of predators and adverse weather conditions. So, try to make a good, comfortable and safe housing system for your ducks.
While building the house, install good ventilation system and ensure flow of sufficient amount of fresh air and light inside the house. Make the house in such a way so that you can easily clean the house.
The Shetland ducks are classed as a small sized breed of domestic duck. So they generally require less housing space as compared to other duck breeds. On average, a mature Shetland duck will require between 3 and 4 square feet of housing space.
Feeding
Feeding the ducks with very good quality and nutritious food is the most important part of Shetland duck farming business. So, always try to feed your ducks with enough good and nutritious food as per their demand.
You can either feed your ducks with ready-made/commercial duck feed or poultry feed depending on the availability in your area. As a smaller sized breed, a mature Shetland duck will require around 130 grams of feed daily. And always provide them with enough clean and fresh drinking water as per their demand.
Breeding
Like many other domestic duck breeds, the Shetland ducks are also naturally very good breeders. So, you don’t have to think much about their breeding.
Just keeping good ratio of male and female ducks will be good enough for successful breeding. Generally one mature male duck is enough for breeding 8-10 female ducks.
Caring
Along with providing the ducks with good food and secure shelter, they also require additional caring for good growth and good health.
So always try to take good care of your ducks. And try to keep good contact with an experienced vet in your area.
Marketing
Duck’s products have very good demand and value in the market. So, you will probably be able to easily sell your products in the local market. Although you should set your marketing strategies before starting this business.
These are the common steps and ways for starting and operating a successful Shetland duck farming business. Hope this guide has helped you! Good luck and may God bless you!
