Ducks are birds, so of course female ducks lay eggs. Here is how often ducks lay eggs and what influences their laying habits.
Do ducks lay eggs?
Yes, all female ducks lay eggs, whether wild or domestic. A female duck is called a hen, and she does not need a male present to lay, though eggs are only fertile if a drake has mated with her. Wild ducks usually lay a clutch of eggs in a hidden nest near water, often in spring, then incubate them for around 28 days. Ducklings hatch ready to walk, swim and feed themselves within hours.
How often do ducks lay eggs?
Laying frequency depends on the type of duck and the season. Wild ducks typically lay one clutch of roughly eight to fifteen eggs each breeding season in spring. Domestic laying breeds, such as pekins and runner ducks, are bred to lay far more, sometimes an egg most days for much of the year. Daylight length, diet and age all affect how often a duck lays. Well-fed hens in long daylight lay best. See our water birds hub for more.