Ducks eat worms, and these invertebrates form a natural, protein-rich component of their diet. This feeding behavior is observed in both wild and domestic ducks, satisfying their nutritional requirements and instinct to forage. Worms, along with other insect larvae, slugs, and aquatic invertebrates, are a highly valued food source for waterfowl. Ducks actively seek out these meals, relying on them as a source of energy and nourishment.
Natural Foraging Behavior
Ducks possess specialized foraging techniques that allow them to locate and capture worms in various environments. Their instinctual feeding process involves dabbling, where they skim the surface of water or sift through soft mud with their bills. This action enables them to filter out small aquatic life and submerged invertebrates, including worms, from the substrate.
On land, a duck’s bill is adapted for probing soft soil and grass to unearth subterranean prey. They use their bills to peck and move aside debris, often leaving small, characteristic holes in the ground as they search for earthworms and grubs. The movement of worms in damp soil, especially after rain, draws their attention, making foraging a highly effective activity. This innate drive to hunt for live food is a significant part of their daily routine.
Nutritional Value and Safety Considerations
Worms offer substantial nutritional benefits, primarily serving as a dense source of protein. This high protein content, which can be around 50% in dried mealworms, supports muscle development and strong feather production during molting. Adequate protein intake is necessary for optimal egg laying in female ducks and for the rapid growth of ducklings.
Beyond protein, worms contain fats and essential fatty acids, such as Omega-3 and Omega-6, which contribute to healthy skin and feather condition. However, feeding wild-caught earthworms carries safety risks, mainly related to parasites. Earthworms can act as intermediate hosts for various internal parasites, including roundworms, which infect the ducks when consumed.
Another consideration is the potential for bioaccumulation of toxins. If earthworms are foraged from soil treated with pesticides or herbicides, those chemicals can transfer to the duck. To minimize these hazards, source worms from clean, untreated environments or use commercially raised options. Maintaining a clean living area for domestic ducks also helps prevent the spread of parasites.
Feeding Worms to Domestic Ducks
For duck owners, worms are best provided as a supplemental treat rather than a primary food source. Commercially available options, such as dried or live mealworms, are popular due to their convenience and guaranteed cleanliness. These mealworms are the larvae of the darkling beetle and provide a consistent, high-protein snack without the parasite risk of wild-caught earthworms.
Earthworms can be fed to domestic ducks, but they should be sourced from a controlled environment, such as a dedicated worm farm or vermicomposting bin. Treats like worms should constitute no more than 10% of a duck’s total daily intake. Offering a small handful a few times a week is sufficient to provide a protein boost and fulfill foraging instincts without unbalancing their complete feed diet.