The length of the laying period of ducks can be increased considerably if supplemental lighting is provided. If supplemental light is not provided, egg production will be seasonal and dependent on changes in natural daylength. Adding artificial light to extend the daily light period to about 14 hours, and preventing any decrease in day length, will provide adequate light stimulation for ducks to lay continuously for 7-12 months, depending upon their ability to lay, and other conditions. Such a lighting schedule is usually accomplished with the aid of electric time clocks that turn lights on and off at set times. If timers cannot be used, lights can simply be left on 24 hours a day, or turned on and off manually as required.
Artificial lighting is less important for growing ducks.
Ducks are nocturnal, and can find feed and water in the dark. However artificial light is important the first few days to assist ducklings in getting started drinking and eating, and it is recommended that some supplemental light be provided for at least the first 3 weeks . Totally confined growing ducks, as in commercial production, will require some light every day. It is also beneficial to have dim light provided by low wattage bulbs at night to help prevent stampeding if the flock is disturbed. For more information on lighting programs for ducks contact the Duck Laboratory.