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Loving homes needed for ex laying ducks ! * |
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At the moment the Trust has just finished re-homing the first
batches of around 2000 ex laying ducks. |
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| The farmers need to move them out to make room
for new younger layers. We do understand the problems relating to the commercial side of
farming and that new batches of younger ducks are regularly needed to keep egg production
at a working level. |
| The commercial life of a laying duck is about 2½
years although this may vary, the actual lifespan of a domesticated duck can be up
to 15 years ( we have had ducks of this age !) and laying continues well into old age but
not at the same frequency as a young bird. |
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| Many duck (and hen) farmers find themselves
forced into contracts with companies who "process" the birds at the end of their
short lives. The contracts are often for fixed numbers which makes it very difficult for
these farmers to allow re-homing. |
| Luckily, the Trust is dealing with farmers who
have ethics and welfare high on their priorities list, and they are delighted to hear that
the ducks might find long term new homes when they have done their work. |
| So, winners all round - The problem is that the
ducks come in batches of about 800 ! -- AHH !!! |
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| This is an on going project, so please let
Fernwood know if you feel that you could give several a home or if you know of
anyone else who might be able to help. |
Please
Please get
in touch |
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