MUSCOVY DUCKSTABLE OF CONTENTSINTRODUCTIONMANAGEMENT
PRACTICESEmployee Training and MonitoringRecord KeepingHATCHING AND
SERVICING DUCKLINGSEgg Storage and PreparationIncubationHatchery
Processing of DucklingsEgg and Cull DisposalBROODING AND
GROWINGBrooding TemperatureBrooder RingsFeed and
WaterMonitoringBREEDING STOCKHousingNestsFeed and waterLightingEgg
Collection and HandlingENVIRONMENTHousingVentilationAir
QualityFlooring and LitterStocking DensityFeed and
WaterLightingRange RearingHEALTH MAINTENANCE
PROGRAMSBiosecurityCleaning and
DisinfectingImmunizationMedicationsBeak and Claw TrimmingDisposal
of Dead BirdsMETHODS OF EUTHANASIA FOR CULLSCervical
DislocationMacerationHANDLING AND TRANSPORTATIONCatching and
LoadingTransportationPROCESSINGUnloadingShackling and Slaughter
INTRODUCTIONThis document is intended to be a guide for the
humane rearing of commercial Muscovy ducks. It has been developed
with the welfare of the ducks as a priority. Welfare has been shown
to impact hatchability, livability and overall carcass quality.
Provision of a comfortable, well-managed environment for
farm-reared ducks is in the best interests of the birds and the
owners. Raising ducks requires knowledge of their behavior and
proper production techniques. More detailed information on rearing
ducks can be obtained from the University of California Cooperative
Extension, experienced industry representatives, books and other
publications. Anyone planning to raise Muscovy ducks should
familiarize themselves with appropriate husbandry techniques prior
to obtaining any ducklings. MANAGEMENT PRACTICESEmployee Training
and MonitoringDuck caretakers should be trained in bio-security,
duck behavior, brooder management, house ventilation, flock health
management, litter management and emergency procedures. This
training should include the rationale for all procedures. Emergency
procedures should be clearly posted and should include emergency
contacts and telephone numbers. Employees should have access to
managers or emergency services at all times. Record KeepingGood
records are essential to successful duck production. Records should
be kept on hatchability, mortality, culling levels, reasons for
culling, feed consumption, rodent control, vaccinations, farm
visitors and any other flock information that is available. Records
should be used on a regular basis to identify problems and
determine the success of bird management programs.HATCHING AND
SERVICING DUCKLINGSEgg Storage and PreparationDuck hatching eggs
should be stored at a temperature of 55 to 65oF (12-18o C) with a
relative humidity of 70-80%. Eggs should be stored on clean egg
flats with the large end up. Prolonged storage (more than 7 days)
will result in a linear decrease in percent hatch. Eggs that are
misshapen, abnormally large or small, visibly cracked, or
excessively dirty should be removed prior to storage and not
incubated.
Incubation The hatchery should be properly ventilated to assure
good hatches. Incubators should be tested prior to setting eggs to
assure that optimum conditions are maintained. Muscovy ducks
require an incubation period of 35 days. Eggs should be set with
the large end up or in a horizontal position depending on the type
of incubator trays used. It is suggested that hatcheries use the
manufacturers recommended temperature and humidity settings for
duck eggs until experience is gained. Most machines are equipped
with automatic turning devices and they should be set to turn the
eggs every hour. If the eggs must be turned manually, it should be
done 3 or more (an odd number) times per day. For still-air
incubators the temperature within the incubator should be
maintained at approximately 102oF (39oC) with 60 to 65% relative
humidity. The thermometer should be placed at average egg height.
Water pans should be filled just prior to use and water replaced
every 3 to 4 days throughout the incubation period. The eggs should
be placed horizontally and turned 180 degrees on the long axis, 3
or more times per day (an odd number). In forced-air incubators a
dry bulb temperature of 99.5oF (37.5oC) and a wet bulb temperature
of 88oF (31.5oC; equivalent to 65% relative humidity) are
recommended. Eggs should be transferred to hatching machines
approximately 3 days prior to hatch (this can be done anytime after
24 days if desired). Recommended settings during hatch are 98.5oF
(37oC) temperature and a wet-bulb temperature of 88oF (31oC;
equivalent to 66% relative humidity). Eggs should not be turned in
the hatchers. Hatchers should be cleaned and disinfected after each
hatch. Setters can be cleaned less frequently but should still be
cleaned on a regular basis. Hatchery Processing of DucklingsAfter
hatching ducklings should be removed from the machine promptly
(when 95% are dry) to prevent dehydration. They are very sensitive
and should be handled carefully. Place ducklings in fresh
disposable boxes or clean and disinfected plastic boxes. Boxes
should be lined with new pads that provide good traction to prevent
injury. The boxes should provide adequate ventilation to prevent
heat stress. The duckling holding room should be maintained at 75oF
(23.9oC) and 75% relative humidity.Vehicles used to transport
ducklings should provide adequate ventilation, temperature and
humidity levels throughout the trip. Delivery times should be
scheduled with weather conditions in mind. During hot weather,
delivery should begin as early as possible to prevent heat stress.
During loading and unloading, the ducklings should be monitored for
signs of heat stress (panting, dropping wings or prostration) and
any problems should be remedied quickly. The truck and any
equipment used for loading and unloading should be cleaned between
uses. Vaccinations may be given at the hatchery. Follow the
manufacturers instructions for handling, preparing and
administering the vaccine. Egg and Cull DisposalAny unhatched eggs
or cull ducklings must be humanely euthanized immediately after the
hatch is pulled. Acceptable methods include cervical dislocation
and maceration. Methods that involve suffocation, drowning or
contact with irritating chemicals should not be used. Employees
must be properly trained and monitored to assure humane euthanasia.
BROODING AND GROWINGBrooding TemperatureMuscovy ducklings are
particularly sensitive to cold and require an ambient air
temperature of 85 to 90oF (29.4 to 32.2oC) for the first 3 days.
The temperature can be gradually reduced to approximately 82oF (28o
C) by the end of the first week. Temperature can be reduced weekly
until 28 days when it should be maintained between 63 oF and 70 oF
(17.5o C and 21o C). All equipment necessary to heat the house
should be started at least 24 hours prior to the arrival of the
ducklings to ensure conditions are optimal when they are
placed.Brooder RingsIt is best to confine the ducklings to a
smaller space using a brooder ring until they become adjusted to
their environment and learn the location of water, heat and feed.
Rings can be constructed out of metal, wire or other material that
can be easily cleaned and sanitized or disposable corrugated
cardboard. The material should be 12 to 15 inches high and should
form a ring around the heat source, feeders and watering devices
without leaving any corners where ducklings might pile and smother.
The rings diameter should be increased and joined to other rings to
form larger circles as the birds grow. At 7 to 10 days of age the
rings can be removed and the birds allowed access to the entire
pen. Feed and WaterDrinking water is one of the most critical needs
of a duckling. Water containers should be filled at least 24 hours
prior to placement of the birds to allow the water to reach room
temperature. The height of all watering devices should be adjusted
as the birds grow to ensure ease of access. Since ducks are
waterfowl, they need to be able to immerse their bills in water.
This is important for proper hygiene and the health of their
nostrils and eyes. The watering devices should not be large enough
to allow them to put their entire body into the water. This will
cause the water to get dirty and become contaminated. Adequate
watering space should be provided (75 inches trough access space,
10 cups or 15 nipples/ 100 ducks up to 7 weeks of age). Watering
equipment should be cleaned frequently. Feeders should provide 75
inches of trough access per 100 ducks up to 7 weeks of age. Feed
can be provided immediately upon arrival of the birds or shortly
after to encourage the birds to locate the water first. Feed should
be provided on a free choice basis. The ration should provide
adequate levels of nutrients to ensure optimum growth and
development. Any caked or stale feed should be removed to prevent
bacterial and mold growth. Placement of the feeders and watering
devices is important for litter maintenance. It may be desirable to
move them daily to prevent build up of caked litter. Litter under
feeders and watering devices should be monitored and caked litter
removed and replaced. It may be preferred to place watering devices
and feeders on raised slatted or wire flooring to prevent the
problems associated with wet litter. MonitoringDucklings should be
checked at least twice a day for the first week to ensure adequate
access to feed and water. Particular attention should be paid to
duck behavior to assess if the temperature is comfortable. If
radiant heaters are used the duckings should form a ring under the
heater. If they crowd to the center it is an indication that the
temperature is to low. If the entire pen is heated the ducklings
should spread out uniformly. If they crowd together in groups or
one side of the pen it is an indication that the temperature is too
low or that the pen is drafty. After the first week, the ducks
should be inspected at least daily. If injuries occur, efforts
should be made to determine the cause and make any adjustments
possible to prevent future incidences. Caretakers should move
through pens carefully while monitoring for sick or injured birds.
Culls should be removed to a hospital pen or humanely euthanized.
BREEDING STOCKBreeding stock is started in the same way as market
ducks. Additional housing space should be provided during the
development period. HousingBreeder ducks may be kept in litter
floor houses or houses with access to outside runs. If outside runs
are used ducks should be confined indoors during the night to
protect them from predators. If feed is provided inside, water must
also be provided. Otherwise it is acceptable to allow the ducks to
go without water during the night. Each duck should be allotted 4
to 6 ft2 of space. There should be a ratio of one male per 3 to 4
females. NestsNests should be provided to prevent the ducks from
laying eggs on the floor where they have a greater chance of
becoming contaminated, cracked or broken. One nest should be
provided for each four or five females. Clean, dry nest pads or
litter should be provided in the nests and changed often to keep
eggs clean. Nests should be large enough to provide an environment
where the duck can feel safe. Suggested dimensions are 12 in wide,
18 in deep and 12 in high. A small 2-inch high board can be placed
across the front to retain nest litter.Feed and waterDucks should
be fed a maintenance ration from 8 weeks to an age of 5 to 7 months
depending upon when lay will be initiated. The maintenance diet
should be formulated to provide adequate nutrient levels for
uniform flock growth and development without excessive fat. At 5 to
7 months, a breeder diet should be provided starting 1 month prior
to the time hatching eggs are required. The breeder ration should
provide adequate nutrients to ensure breeder health, egg quality
and good hatchability. Feed can be provided free choice or in
measured quantities. If feed is not provided free choice, care
should be taken to ensure uniform feed consumption among
individuals. Water must be available whenever feed is provided, but
need not be available at all times. Care should be taken to assure
that ducks consume adequate water.Lighting Ducks are usually
stimulated to come into full lay at approximately 7 months of age.
The most appropriate age to light stimulate ducks may vary with
genetic strain. Consult the breeding company for their
recommendations. Proper age at light stimulation will ensure
adequate body development and optimal health during egg production.
A 14 hour day length is sufficient to stimulate full production.
Light stimulate drakes one to two weeks before ducks to assure good
fertility.Recycling (molting) of BreedersFeed can be withheld for a
period up to 48 hours but water should always be available during
recycling. Samples of ducks should be weighed frequently to assure
that weight loss is within target guidelines. Flock mortality
should be monitored closely during any recycling program. Any
increase in mortality should be investigated promptly. Egg
Collection and Handling Since ducks lay their eggs early in the
day, collection should take place in early morning. A second or
third collection may be desirable at hourly intervals. Another
collection can take place just before the birds are confined
indoors for the night if they have access to outside runs. Muscovy
ducks are very broody, so it is important to collect the eggs
often. For egg handling and storing procedures consult: HATCHING
AND SERVICING DUCKLINGS page 5.ENVIRONMENTHousingHousing is
provided as protection from the extremes of the environment that
could cause mortality, reduced growth, immunosuppression, reduced
fertility or reduced egg production.Appropriate building design
should consider the local climate and temperature. Insulation may
be necessary to maintain the desired temperature range within the
house. Materials used in construction of the interior surfaces
should be easily cleaned and sanitized. The house should be free
from any sharp edges, corners or other protrusions, which might
injure the birds. The house should be well maintained and necessary
repairs should be done in a timely manner. Muscovy ducks are
particularly sensitive to cold temperatures. Heaters or provisions
for cooling may be necessary to maintain temperature within an
optimum range. Heat stress may be reduced by using roof sprinklers,
inside foggers, fans that move air over the ducks, ceiling
insulation or evaporative pad cooling. The behavior of ducks is an
excellent indication of the comfort of the environment. Ducks that
are too cold will huddle close together. If they are too hot, they
will open their beaks, pant and spread their wings.
VentilationVentilation is necessary to remove moisture, carbon
dioxide and ammonia and provide oxygen. The ammonia level should
not exceed 25 ppm. Long-term exposure to ammonia in excess of this
level will cause damage to the lungs, trachea and eyes. Ammonia
levels should be assessed at the level of the ducks. It is
important that uniform ventilation is provided without cold drafts
on young ducklings.Air QualityAir quality is an important
consideration for the ducks and workers. Poor air quality can lead
to health problems such as deterioration of the lungs, trachea and
eyes. Air quality is a more serious concern in closed houses with
high stocking density. Airborne contaminants should never exceed
the limits recommended by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration.Dust and ammonia are the most obvious of the
airborne contaminants in duck houses. Dust results from manure,
feed, litter and dander. The permissible exposure limit set by
Cal/OSHA for total dust is 10 mg/m3 and for respirable dust is 5
mg/m3. Ammonia exposure limits for workers established by Cal/OSHA
are 25 ppm for an 8-hour TWA (time weighted average) exposure and
35 ppm for a 15-minute short-term exposure.Endotoxins (toxins
derived from bacteria) are also an important consideration for the
safety of workers. No acceptable limits have been set by Cal/OSHA
but managers should be alert for symptoms of excessive exposure in
workers. These symptoms include, cough, chest tightness, diarrhea,
eye irritation, fatigue, fever, headache, nasal irritation, nausea
and phlegm. Levels of ammonia and dust should be closely monitored
and maintained below acceptable limits. Employee exposure to
excessive levels should be minimized and respiratory protection (a
two-strap, OSHA approved dust mask) should be provided if
necessary. Flooring and LitterConcrete floors are preferred but
packed earthen floors can also be used. Floors should be graded to
prevent pooling of water.Many types of litter may be used,
including wood shavings, rice hulls and chopped straw. The material
used should be absorbent and not easily packed down. Enough litter
should be provided to absorb the feces moisture. Maintaining good
litter condition is important to bird health. If the litter is too
dry, it can become dusty and cause respiratory problems. If the
litter is too wet, caking occurs and can result in footpad lesions
and breast blisters, which are uncomfortable for the animal and
adversely, affect carcass quality. Moisture level is of particular
importance to Muscovy ducks. Since they are waterfowl, Muscovy
ducks require water for grooming. This process leads to splashing
and spilled water around the watering equipment. Also, duck feces
are considerably wetter than the feces of other poultry. Litter
should be raked over to break up any clumps and layers of fresh
litter should be added as needed. Locating watering devices and
feeders on raised, slatted or wire floors will reduce wet litter
problems.Stocking Density Males and females should be grown in
separate pens. Ducks grow rapidly and overcrowding can develop
quickly. Overcrowding should be avoided since it can cause wet
litter, uneven and poor growth and increased feather picking. For
heavy strains, the stocking density can range from 2 to 3 ft2 for
males and from 1 to 2 ft2 for females. In determining stocking
density, the flooring type, equipment, ventilation and climate
should be considered. Males and females can be placed in separate
houses or in separate pens within the same house. If the later
approach is used, males should be allowed access to the entire
house when females are removed for processing before males.Feed and
WaterDucks should receive diets that provide nutrient levels
appropriate for their age and reproductive condition. Additional
feeding and watering equipment may be needed as the birds grow to
ensure all birds receive adequate nutrients (see Feed and Water
page 7 for detailed recommendations). Feed and water intake should
be monitored as an indicator of flock health and any abrupt changes
should be investigated. Young ducks can be fed mash or crumbled
feed. Pelleted feeds are often used for older ducks because they
have been shown to reduce waste, improve feed efficiency and
increase growth response. LightingLighting can be supplied by
natural light or artificial lamps. Light intensity should be
adequate for the caretaker to work effectively and to examine the
birds for signs of illness or behavioral abnormality. During the
first week, a minimum of 1 to 2 foot candles of light intensity
should be provided for 23 hours a day. This allows the birds time
to adjust to their environment and learn where the feeders and
watering devices are located. Two hours of darkness should be
provided on the first day of week 2 with 2-hour additions each day
until a 16-hour day-length is reached. From week 4 to processing,
14 hours of light and 10 hours of dark should be provided at
minimum of 1 foot-candle of intensity. If cannibalism begins to
occur prior to scheduled bill trimming, reduction of light
intensity can be temporarily used in an effort to reduce the
problem.Range RearingDucks can be successfully reared on range,
provided the range area is properly maintained and shelter, feed
and water are available. This system can only be used during mild
weather. There are different types of free-range systems. The
traditional system involves rearing ducks completely on pasture.
Feed should be provided as a supplement to the pasture in order to
ensure proper nutrition. Shelter from wind, rain and sun should be
provided. Ducks should be confined to the shelters at night as
protection from predators. Moveable shelters are preferred to
prevent overgrazing and ducks should be moved to fresh range at
regular intervals. When first placed on range young ducklings
should be carefully monitored to assure they are not chilled.
Another range system allows ducks access to outside runs or pens
that are attached to the building. Doors to the run should be
opened only during the daytime when weather permits. Each of these
systems can be an effective type of enrichment without excessive
cost. With range systems there is increased risk of death or injury
from predation as well as exposure to wild birds and vermin, which
may carry disease. There is little risk of escape by flight of
heavy-type Muscovy ducks.HEALTH MAINTENANCE PROGRAMSProduction
animals are exposed to disease-causing agents daily but a good
health maintenance program can prevent disease and death caused by
these agents. All managers and employees of Muscovy production
facilities should be trained in effective bio-security procedures.
BiosecurityBiosecurity procedures are designed to prevent the
introduction to or spread of disease onto a farm. Biosecurity is a
low cost and effective form of disease prevention and is essential
to the success of any animal health program. A biosecurity plan
should be developed with the assistance of a veterinarian or health
management professional. Employees should thoroughly understand
biosecurity and be fully trained in biosecurity procedures. Some of
the core concepts of biosecurity are: Only visitors with a definite
and necessary purpose should be allowed on the farm. Any persons
making deliveries or pick-ups should and never be in direct contact
with ducks. Farm visitors should be required to sign a logbook and
this record should be retained. Movement of workers between houses,
other production sites and between different age groups of ducks
should be minimized. If necessary, the movement of people and
equipment between age groups should only occur from the youngest
flock to the oldest and never in reverse order. Equipment should be
cleaned and disinfected between uses if it is used in more than one
house. Protective clothing, boots and hairnets should be required
for visitors before entry into any house. Footbaths with adequate
disinfectant should be provided for visitors and employees. Boot
scrubbing stations are also beneficial. The water and disinfectant
in these baths should be changed frequently to ensure
effectiveness. If higher security is desired showers and farm-owned
clothing can be provided for visitors and employees. A regular
schedule of cleaning and disinfecting should be developed and
followed carefully (For details see Cleaning and Disinfecting). Any
trucks, which must come onto the premises, should have their wheels
washed before entry and exit with a disinfecting solution. When
selecting the farm location one should take into consideration
other poultry production sites in the area. Adequate separation
from other poultry units will help prevent disease transfer. It is
preferable for the facility to be away from main highways and
outside of wild bird flyways. Employees should not have contact
with any other poultry and should not be allowed to keep poultry or
other birds. Visitors should not have been in contact with other
poultry during the previous 24 hours and should be required to
shower and change their clothing and shoes before visiting.
Exposure to rodents, wild birds and any other animals should be
prevented, if possible. Buildings and fences should be maintained
in good condition to prevent the entry by vertebrate pests. Weeds
immediately surrounding the house should be cut down to ground
level or killed with an herbicide to reduce harborage. Traps and
baits should be used to control rodents. Inside bait stations
should be designed to prevent duck access. Traps should be checked
and re-baited on a regular schedule. Farm pets should not be
allowed to contact the ducks and preferably should be kept off the
premises completely. Alarms should be used to alert mangers of
power or equipment failure, including alarms for power outage, high
or low temperature, and fan failure. Market ducks should be housed
on an all-in-all-out basis. Different ages of birds should not be
housed in the same building. All dead birds should be removed from
each house and/or yard at least once daily. Ducks should be
monitored daily for signs of disease and sick birds separated from
the flock and held in isolation or euthanized immediately. Whenever
possible, disease-free stock should be used. Signs should be posted
to deter people from entering unauthorized areas. Houses should be
locked to prevent unauthorized entry. Perimeter fencing of the
property is recommended to provide additional security. Cleaning
and DisinfectingCleaning and disinfecting the house and all
equipment is one of the most important aspects of disease
prevention. The house and equipment should be completely cleaned
and disinfected at least once a year. Water lines should be flushed
and disinfected periodically. The watering devices should be
thoroughly cleaned and disinfected frequently. Complete cleaning
and disinfecting of the house and equipment should include the
following aspects: Removal of debris All litter should be
completely removed from houses. Spider webs, dirt and other dry
debris should be knocked down from surfaces and completely removed.
Cleaning of surfaces All inside surfaces and equipment should be
thoroughly washed, preferably with a high-pressure sprayer.
Everything should be allowed to dry for at least 24-36 hours prior
to disinfection. Disinfection of surfaces Several types of
disinfectants are approved for poultry house use. They differ in
cost, characteristics and ability to kill different pathogens. All
surfaces must be clean for disinfection to be successful. When you
select a disinfectant consider water hardness, application method,
disease agent of concern, corrosiveness, and safety precautions
required for applicators. ImmunizationImmunization for the
prevention or suppression of infectious disease is an integral part
of a flock health program. Immunity is of two broad types: passive
or active. Passive immunity in a duckling is a result of maternal
exposure to antigens (vaccination or natural exposure). Maternal
antibodies temporarily protect the duckling for one to three weeks
after hatch depending on the disease agent and the level of
antibodies in the dam. Active immunity occurs after direct exposure
to an antigen, which leads to an immune response. Exposure could be
in the form of a vaccine or through infection. Exposure through
vaccination is controlled to produce immunity without causing overt
disease as can result from unplanned exposure. Response to the
controlled exposure may be in the form of antibodies and/or defense
cells, which will protect the bird from the exposure to the disease
in the future. Generally, vaccinations are given more than once.
This extends the length and level of protection received against
the disease and creates a high level of protection. Active immunity
can induced by inoculation of ducks with either live or killed
disease agents. Killed agents are given as killed vaccines and must
be injected. Live vaccines are administered by a variety of methods
including injection, eye drop, spray, or drinking water.An
immunization program should be developed based on the diseases the
ducks are likely to encounter. An effective program should be
developed with a veterinarian or other duck health care
professional. Maternal immunity in ducklings and any possible
vaccine interactions should be considered when developing a
program. Instructions from the vaccine manufacturer on handling,
preparation and administration should be followed exactly. Antibody
levels in serum from a selected few birds should be monitored
before and after vaccination to determine the success of the
program. Immunizations are never a substitute for strict
bio-security. Vaccinations are less effective if birds have high
levels of exposure to disease causing agents, are stressed, housed
under unsanitary conditions, or have inadequate nutrition. Since
vaccination is itself an expense and a stress on the birds, it
should only be used when it is known the birds are at risk of
infection or an outbreak has occurred previously on the
farm.MedicationsLike vaccination, medication is a stress and should
be used judiciously. Antibiotics should only be used to control a
specific bacterial agent and not for growth promoting purposes.
Preventative medications in the feed can be an effective method of
controlling some diseases. If preventative medications are used,
follow the manufacturers directions for use levels and withdrawal
times or the directions of a licensed veterinarian.Beak and Claw
TrimmingBeak trimming is a common method of controlling feather
pecking and cannibalism in poultry. Muscovy ducks have a problem
with feather pecking. Pecking generally begins around three weeks
of age when the adult plumage begins to grow. Trimming the bill is
stressful and probably causes some pain. Unfortunately, with
Muscovy ducks, no other viable alternatives exist at this time.
Trimming results in a slight shortening of the upper bill relative
to the lower (Figure 1). This keeps the duck from being able to
grasp feathers or flesh during pecking.Figure 1. Freshly trimmed
beak compared to untrimmed beak of 21 day old Muscovy.
Figure 2. Tip of beak removed during trimming.
Only properly trained workers should perform bill trimming.
Management should monitor the quality of the trimming to ensure the
least discomfort possible for the birds. Trimming should take place
before the birds are three weeks of age. Trimming can be done at
the hatchery by searing the nail of the upper bill with an electric
beak trimmer. This method, however, may not be ideal since
re-growth can occur and the process may need to be repeated.
Accuracy is also more difficult since the beak of a day-old
duckling is small. Trimming can also be done at 7 to 21 days of
age. The upper bill is cut at the mid-point of the nail; about inch
is removed see figure 2). This procedure can be done with an
electric debeaker or very sharp straight scissors. Feed but never
water should be removed 1 day prior to trimming. Any culls should
be removed and humanely euthanized. Prior to trimming, Vitamin K
can be given in the water to enhance blood clotting. Good
ventilation should be provided during trimming to prevent heat
stress that can occur if ducks are held too densely in catching
pens. Feed and water should be provided for the birds immediately
after trimming. Feed intake may be reduced, but should return to
normal within 24 hours.Muscovy ducks are very strong and their
nails are extremely sharp. The nails can be trimmed to reduce
scratching of pen mates or risk of injury to workers (Figure 3). It
can be performed as early as 10 days of age. However, it may be
more economical and less stressful to the birds if it is done at
the same time as bill trimming. This procedure can be done with
little discomfort to the duck if performed properly. The claw
should be trimmed close to the base but extreme caution should be
taken to ensure it is not trimmed too closely. As with bill
trimming, this procedure should be done by trained workers and
strictly supervised by managers to ensure accuracy and the welfare
of the birds. Figure 3. Nail of duckling one week after
trimming.
Disposal of Dead BirdsCarcass disposal should be designed to
prevent spread of disease and protect the environment. The
following are acceptable methods for disposal: Rendering This is a
frequently used method of disposal. Ducks should be placed in
fly-tight containers for pick-up by rendering trucks. The pick up
area should be located at the edge of the premises and downwind
from houses if possible. The containers should be kept out of the
reach of the public with biohazard signs posted. Pick-up should be
at least two times per week. Composting This can be an excellent
method for disposal since the birds are recycled and used as
fertilizer. Detailed instructions for mortality composting are
widely available. Construction of an area with a concrete pad to
prevent leaching and a rain shelter to prevent excessive wetting
are necessary. It is important to monitor the compost to ensure an
adequate temperature is reached to destroy pathogens. The compost
facility should be located as far from poultry as feasible and in a
downwind location. Incineration This is a less desirable method of
disposal since it can be costly and does not handle sudden
increases in mortality well. It is effective for disease control.
Regulations on air pollution may prohibit this method or dictate
the type of incinerator that can be used in some areas and proper
ash disposal must be followed. Disposal pits or burial This method
of disposal can only be used in areas where there is no threat of
groundwater contamination. Determining the acceptability of a site
can be costly and may not be successful. Burial is more flexible
than pits, which perform best with constant levels of mortality and
do not handle sudden increases in mortality well. METHODS OF
EUTHANASIA FOR CULLSMethods used to kill culls should result in
humane death, be safe for employees and avoid possible spread of
pathogens. Several methods are acceptable but maceration is often
the most practical method for hatchery culls and embryos. Cervical
dislocation is usually the method of choice for ducks. Cervical
DislocationIf carried out near the base of the birds skull,
dislocation of the neck vertebrae from the cranium damages the
lower brain region, causing rapid unconsciousness. In order to be
humane, dislocation must cause severance of the brain from the
spinal cord and carotid arteries. This is best achieved using a
stretching motion rather than by crushing the vertebrae. Training
of personnel is critical. Small ducks can be dislocated by applying
a rotational movement to the neck. Adult ducks should be held by
the shanks with one hand and the head grasped immediately behind
the skull with the other hand. The neck is then extended and
dislocated using a sharp downward and backward thrust. Flapping and
other body movements may persist for several minutes after cervical
dislocation, although if the vertebrae have been properly
dislocated these are reflex reactions.
Maceration Maceration in a high-speed grinder results in rapid
death, and is considered a humane method for disposing of cull
ducklings and embryonated eggs. Only grinders specifically designed
for disposal of poultry, which have blades that turn at 5000 or
more revolutions per minute, should be used for this purpose. The
grinder should be properly maintained and must not be overloaded,
since birds may be incompletely macerated under these
circumstances. HANDLING AND TRANSPORTATIONMuscovy ducks are a large
and powerful with sharp claws. They should always be handled with
caution to prevent injury to birds and workers. Catchers should be
properly trained before they are allowed to handle ducks. Muscovy
ducks are fast when they are young but become much slower as they
grow due to their large breast size. Handling is a stress on the
birds and should only be done when absolutely necessary. Rough
handling, bruising and stress can adversely affect carcass quality.
Feed should be removed for 8 to 12 hours before slaughter to reduce
carcass contamination.Catching and LoadingBirds should be caught
and carried in a way that provides as much support as possible and
prevents injury to the legs or wings. Care should be taken to keep
the birds as calm as possible during catching. Lights can be
reduced or catching can be done during the night to help keep the
birds calm. Noise levels should also be kept at a minimum. Birds
that become frightened can crowd together creating the potential
for injury, scratching, heat stress or smothering. Enough light
should be provided to ensure worker safety. Crates, cages or bins
should be constructed to prevent injury of birds. Openings should
be provided to allow adequate ventilation. Material used to
construct crates should be easily cleaned and sanitized, plastic is
preferred. Containers should be cleaned and disinfected between
uses. They should be well maintained and any repairs necessary
should be made prior to use. Containers should be constructed to
prevent the birds from standing. This will help prevent injury from
the birds losing their balance during transportation. Adequate
space should be provided to allow all the birds to rest by sitting
at the same time and adequate headspace should be provided.
Appropriate density of birds in containers should be varied with
container size, bird size and environmental conditions. The density
used should allow adequate ventilation and prevent heat stress. If
necessary, fans or evaporative cooling should be utilized to
maintain temperature within an acceptable range. Loading should be
done as quickly as possible without jeopardizing the health of the
birds. The truck driver should check to assure container closure
and secure the load before the trip begins.
TransportationTransportation should be scheduled during the cool
times of the day and traffic patterns should also be considered to
avoid unnecessary delays. The birds should spend as little time as
possible in transit. Temperature on the truck during transportation
should also be closely monitored. The driver is responsible for
ensuring the health of the ducks during the entire trip. Protection
from extreme weather such as wind, rain and heat should be provided
as necessary. If delay due to traffic, inspection or other reason
is unavoidable, adequate air circulation must be provided. It is
advisable to equip trucks with fans or evaporative cooling pads to
provide adequate cooling and air movement when delay occurs. The
shortest route may not be the best path. Other poultry facilities
and urban areas should be avoided if possible. It is advisable for
the driver to have some form of communication such as a cell phone
in case of prolonged delay or emergency. It is also advisable for
the drivers to be trained in humane methods of euthanasia in case
there is an accident and ducks are injured. The truck should be
cleaned and sanitized between each use. PROCESSINGProcessing plants
should be designed to provide proper sanitation, minimize bird
discomfort and maintain carcass quality. Bird welfare and safety
should not be sacrificed for speed. Workers should be properly
trained in the use of equipment and in proper procedures to protect
bird welfare. Training is essential to ensure worker safety and the
optimal quality of the carcass. UnloadingCoordination between the
farm and the processing plant is essential to minimize the time the
birds must wait to be unloaded. The birds should be unloaded
promptly and in a safe manner. Stress to the bird immediately prior
to slaughter can have an adverse effect on carcass quality. The
unloading environment should be controlled to prevent the birds
suffering from heat or cold stress. ShacklingShackles of
appropriate size should be used. Hang ducks carefully by both legs
to avoid bone breakage and injury. The ducks should not be
suspended for longer than 1 minute prior to stunning. Stunning and
SlaughterThe purpose of stunning is to render the duck insensible
to pain, thereby eliminating suffering. Stunning also immobilizes
the bird, which reduces injury and assures proper positioning for
humane slaughter. It may be accomplished with a hand held stunner
or by passing the ducks through an electrified water bath. The
water bath must be adjusted to an appropriate height to ensure
adequate contact. The strength of the current must be monitored and
adjusted as necessary in consideration of the equipment, age and
size of the birds. The birds should be in contact with the current
for at least 4 seconds. The birds should be killed within 60
seconds of stunning by severing both jugular veins and carotid
arteries. This can be done with a sharp hand-held knife or a
mechanical knife. It is important for killing knives to be
sharpened at regular intervals.