Ducks' autumn molting: How to get the finest plumage before winter

From summer-weary to winter coat

In September, our ducks at Den Lille Hagen i Fjære begin one of nature's most fascinating transformations: autumn molting. This is a period when they shed old feathers and grow completely new, densely packed winter feathers.

During this process, ducks are entirely dependent on good nutrition. Their bodies work intensively, and every gram of protein counts.

What happens during molting

• Feather shedding: Can take 4-8 weeks. The ducks may seem a bit scruffy, but it's normal and necessary
• Energy needs: Increase dramatically – they need more feed than usual
• Water needs: Still critically important even as temperatures drop

How we support the molting

Here on the farm we give our ducks:

• High-quality feed rich in protein sources (insects, small zooplankton in the water)
• Access to their beloved water basins – even during molting they need it to maintain their feathers
• Low stress, peace and quiet

When November arrives, our ducks in the Agder region have grown into their warmest, densest winter feathers – perfectly prepared for what's to come. A beautiful reminder of how clever nature is.