How long a duck lives depends a lot on whether it is a wild bird dodging predators or a well-kept pet. The difference can be many years.
How long do wild ducks live?
Wild ducks such as mallards typically live around 5 to 10 years, but many die much younger. Ducklings and young birds face heavy losses from predators, harsh weather and disease, which pulls average lifespans down. Ducks that reach adulthood have a much better chance of living several years.
How long do pet and domestic ducks live?
Kept safe from predators with good food and care, domestic ducks commonly live 10 to 15 years, and some reach 20. Lifespan varies by breed — larger meat breeds like Pekins often live shorter lives (around 5–8 years), while lighter breeds tend to live longer.
What affects a duck's lifespan
The biggest factors are predators, diet and living conditions. Wild ducks live and die by their environment, while pet ducks live longest with companions (ducks are social), clean water to swim in, a predator-proof shelter, a proper waterfowl diet, and access to a vet who treats birds.