MUSCOVY DUCKS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
Employee Training and Monitoring
Record Keeping

HATCHING AND SERVICING DUCKLINGS

Egg Storage and Preparation
Incubation
Hatchery Processing of Ducklings
Egg and Cull Disposal

BROODING AND GROWING

Brooding Temperature
Brooder Rings
Feed and Water
Monitoring

BREEDING STOCK
Housing

Nests
Feed and water
Lighting
Egg Collection and Handling

ENVIRONMENT
Housing
Ventilation
Air Quality
Flooring and Litter
Stocking Density
Feed and Water
Lighting
Range Rearing

HEALTH MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS

Biosecurity
Cleaning and Disinfecting
Immunization
Medications
Beak and Claw Trimming
Disposal of Dead Birds

METHODS OF EUTHANASIA FOR CULLS

Cervical Dislocation
Maceration

HANDLING AND TRANSPORTATION

Catching and Loading
Transportation

PROCESSING
Unloading
Shackling and Slaughter

INTRODUCTION

This 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 PRACTICES

Employee Training and Monitoring

Duck 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 Keeping

Good 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

DUCKLINGS
Egg Storage and Preparation

Duck 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 Ducklings

After 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 Disposal

Any 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 GROWING

Brooding Temperature
Muscovy 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 Rings

It 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 Water

Drinking 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.

Monitoring

Ducklings 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 STOCK

Breeding stock is started in the same way as market ducks. Additional housing space
should be provided during the development period.

Housing

Breeder 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.

Nests

Nests 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 water

Ducks 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 Breeders

Feed 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.

ENVIRONMENT
Housing
Housing 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.

Ventilation

Ventilation 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 Quality
Air 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 Litter

Concrete 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 Water

Ducks 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.

Lighting
Lighting 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 16hour 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 Rearing

Ducks 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 PROGRAMS

Production 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.

Biosecurity
Biosecurity 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 Disinfecting

Cleaning 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.

Immunization

Immunization 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.

Medications

Like 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 Trimming

Beak 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 Birds

Carcass 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 CULLS

Methods 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 Dislocation
If 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 TRANSPORTATION

Muscovy 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 Loading

Birds 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.

Transportation

Transportation 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.

PROCESSING

Processing 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.

Unloading

Coordination 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.

Shackling

Shackles 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 Slaughter

The 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.