How long do Indian Runner Ducks live?
Indian Runner ducks commonly live 8-12 years with good care and predator protection.
What do Indian Runner Ducks eat?
Feed a layer or waterfowl pellet (16-18% protein, plus calcium for layers) with greens and foraged insects; avoid bread and never feed avocado or chocolate. Free-ranging cuts feed cost and controls pests. Fresh water for drinking and bathing daily is essential.
Indian Runner Duck housing and daily life
Provide a predator-proof coop with 4-6 sq ft per bird and a secure run or free-range with access to a pond or at least a deep tub to submerge heads. Hardware cloth and a raccoon-proof latch are critical. They tolerate cold but need shade in heat and dry bedding.
Common mistakes with Indian Runner Ducks
Top mistakes are weak predator protection, no bathing water (eye/foot problems), and feeding bread or niacin-deficient chick starter. Nonstick-fume exposure near indoor housing and keeping a lone duck (they are flock birds) are common errors.
Beginner mistakes to avoid
- Weak predator-proofing, the leading cause of duck loss.
- No water to submerge in, causing eye, nostril, and foot problems.
- Feeding bread or niacin-deficient chick starter, causing deficiency.
- Keeping a single duck, and exposing birds to Teflon/PTFE fumes or toxic foods.