How Long Do Ducks Live?
Did you know that there are 29 different species of ducks in Canada alone? Waterfowl are found throughout the world and include flightless species as well as those undertaking long migrations. Ducks got their name from the old english verb ducan (to duck or dive); ducks are named for what they do - ducking underwater to procure their meals.
Average Lifespan of Ducks
The average lifespan of a duck is 8 to 12 years. Just like with dogs, the bigger the duck, the shorter the lifespan. Now, technically, geese and swans also belong to the Anatidae family - an umbrella term for water fowl. Let's look at differences in longevity between wild and domestic ducks. Not average by any means is a pair of ducks in South Africa who, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, lived to the ripe old age of 49!
Wild Ducks vs. Domestic Ducks
Wild ducks live 8 to 10 years, or thereabouts. Domestic ducks, on the other hand, can live as long as TWENTY years or more - if healthy and with proper care. That is quite a discrepancy. Let's have a closer look at what determines the lifespan of a duck and what duck keepers can do to prolong the life of their charges.
Wild Ducks
Determining avian lifespan really depends on when you start counting. If we are talking about eggs (before hatching), the numbers are devastating. Out of 100 eggs only 15 will hatch. Once hatched, about half of the ducklings will fall prey to predators. Once ducks are able to take flight, the odds increase dramatically and keep increasing with age. In conclusion, wild duck survival is mostly determined by the first year of life.
Domestic Ducks
A well loved and cared for domestic duck can easily live to the age of 20 and even beyond. With a sturdy and predator safe enclosure, plenty of clean water and an ample food supply - their life is one of leisure. That doesn't mean there are no threats. Pond duck longevity can be curtailed by a host of diseases. You'll need to monitor your domestic duck flock for signs of:
- Mycosis
- Non-specific diarrhea
- Salmonellosis
- Sinusitis
- Spirochaetosis
- Rickets
- Vitamin A deficiency
- White eye
Factors Affecting Duck Lifespan
Ducks are hardy birds that can survive in many environments all over the world. This is particularly remarkable in northern climates, where the birds face harsh winters and compete for a limited amount of food. Let's explore the factors affecting duck lifespan in more detail:
Species Variations
Again.. the larger they are, the shorter their life. Unfortunately, that is true for many species - not just waterfowl. But aside from that, some species are definitely more hardy (or skilled at survival) than others. At the top of the longevity list according to hunting records sits the Mallard Duck with the oldest shot at 27 years old, while 20 years of age was oldest reported harvest of a Green Winged Teal Duck. Some species, like the wood duck have a significantly shorter life expetancy - usually not over 4 years.
Gender
There is some evidence that male ducks (drakes) have a higher survival rate and therefore longer livespan than female ducks (hens). This is attributed to reproduction and nesting - 'sitting ducks' as it were, are easier preyed upon than those able to take to the skies.
Read more: How Long Do Ducks Live?
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