Most people may know that ducks love to eat bread and other bits of human-provided snacks. But can ducks eat something exotic like watermelon? The short answer is, yes, ducks can eat watermelon.
Ducks have a pretty strong affinity for watermelon, so much so that they seek it out and can spot it. What’s more? Keep reading to find out!
Watermelon contains many nutrients that ducks need, such as vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and various minerals, including copper, manganese, and potassium. These nutrients are vital for ducks during the summer when the weather is hot, and they need additional sources of vitamins and minerals to stay healthy.
How to Feed Ducks Watermelon
So, you’re interested in feeding ducks watermelon? That’s a great idea. Ducks love watermelon, and it’s a very healthy treat for them. But, before you go and put something in their bowl, there are a few precautions to consider.
1. Choose the Right Variety of Watermelon
When choosing a watermelon, the goal is to select one with a good flavor and texture. The ducks will only eat it if it’s overripe, mushy watermelon. It’s also essential to get the right size – for an average-sized duck, a grapefruit-sized piece is about right.
2. Rinse Well
It’s essential to rinse the watermelon before you feed it to the ducks. Even if you got it from a supermarket or a farm, there could be pesticide residue and other contaminants. Use a vegetable brush to scrub the surface, then give the fruit a good rinsing.
3. Portions Are Important
Cut Up The Watermelons or slice them into thin, bite-sized pieces for easy feeding. It would help to use your common sense when deciding how much watermelon to give.
Too much is always worse than too little, so start with a small piece. Consider giving small amounts throughout the day if the ducks like it. In addition, another way to let ducks enjoy the watermelon is to freeze it. Cut up the watermelon into small pieces and then freeze it.
4. Feed the ducks.
Now that you’re all set up, it’s time to feed those ducks! You can use a bucket or bowl to scatter the watermelon pieces or provide them right out of your hand. The ducks will thank you!
5. Mix with other food the next time you’re feeding them
Due to watermelon’s high water content, mixing it with other duck food sources is suggested. Cut up small pieces of the flesh, rind, and place them in their food bowl.
The ducks can go ahead and nibble away the parts. It is possible to cut it into larger chunks, depending on the size of the duck, and some even like eating entire slices of watermelon.
6. Enjoy The Moment
Now it’s time to sit back and relax! Watching the ducks feast on the watermelon is a beautiful way to enjoy a sunny or cold afternoon.
Important Things to Consider
Ducks love watermelon! It is tasty, nutritious, and a great snack to share during your next visit to the park. However, consider a few things before you pick one up to feed these feathered friends.
Watermelon is a sweet, juicy treat that ducks may love – but there are some things to consider before feeding them a piece. Here’s what you need to know!
Portion Control
Watermelons are a nutritious snack for ducks but should be given in small pieces and limited quantities. Otherwise, it can lead to overeating and digestive issues. It is why when it comes to feeding ducks watermelon, the best way is to cut the fruit into smaller, bite-size pieces.
It will make it easier for the ducks to eat, and you’ll also know the portions. You can then scatter the pieces of watermelon on the ground or place them in a shallow bucket or container. The ducks will naturally gravitate toward the food and start eating.
Avoid Seeds and Rind
Before feeding a duck any food, knowing what food is safe for the animal is essential. Seeds and rinds from watermelons can be dangerous for ducks, so removing them before feeding is vital.
If seeds are swallowed, they can get stuck in the digestive tract and cause serious medical problems. Cut it into smaller pieces so the ducks can quickly eat it.
Consider Alternative Treats
Watermelon is a treat for ducks, but you can feed them many other nutritious snacks that are better options. Consider frozen peas or corn – these are moderate sources of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals that ducks need.
Type of Watermelon
Not all watermelons are the same. Some have fewer seeds, while others are ripe with seeds. Ducks can peck through the skin and get to their favorite treat, but they may struggle with a variety with less. Choose a standard watermelon with some seeds.
Size
Ducks aren’t known for their delicate biting skills. Therefore, you’ll want to choose a more miniature watermelon for greater ease of eating.
Slicing
Slicing is the way to go when accessing the delicious interior. You can buy a pre-cut watermelon or cut it yourself. Remember to cut slices no more than 2-3 inches thick for the best experience.
Condition of the Watermelon
Ducks also need to be able to eat their snack safely. Ensure it doesn’t have too much damage when you buy it, such as smushed sides, insect holes, and a sour smell.
Conclusion
Ducks need a safe area to eat, and you should never feed them on the ground as they may choke on a piece of food. Instead, you should provide them with watermelon from an elevated platform. It can be a sidewalk, backyard deck, bridge, or any other area where they can feed safely.
Ducks can eat watermelon, but you should be mindful of how much they consume and feed it in moderation, as they may suffer intestinal issues if they overdo it.
The only thing you should consider when feeding watermelon to your ducks is the amount. While watermelon is nutritious and does provide many essential vitamins and minerals, it isn’t part of a duck’s natural diet.
Overeating can cause the duck to fill up on empty calories and fat, and this can lead to health problems down the line. As with anything, it’s best to give your ducks this tasty treat in moderation.
