During the summer, shade should also be available. Nutrient recommendations for ducks and geese are illustrated in Table 1. Duck and goose starters have been specially formulated to contain required nutrients for their respective species. However, goslings can be fed a duck starter if goose starter is not available. If neither are available, non-medicated chick or turkey starters can be used but are not ideal.
Waterfowl tend to waste a substantial amount of feed if it is in a mash form.
Therefore pellets or crumbles are recommended. Geese are better foragers than ducks, but both can utilize the nutrients in succulent green plants. They should also have daily access to a regular duck or goose diet. This may be a complete diet or a supplement mixed with grain. Ducks and geese are affected by fewer infectious diseases and parasites than chickens and turkeys.