Duck production strategy in Shibpur upazila under Narsingdi district

Abstract

The current study was conducted to assess the duck production strategies in Shibpur upazila under Narsingdi district. A total of 36 farmers were selected to conduct a survey from the study area. Data were collected from March to September, 2021 by using a structured questionnaire. Results showed that the majority of the farmers (47.22%) belonged to young aged group. About 50% of the farmers received secondary education and most of the duck farmers (47.22%) were housewives. Most (38.89%) of the duck house were made of tin shed. About 58.23% farmers reared deshi ducks following semi-scavenging system. Around 55% respondents reported that egg production of semi-scavenging deshi ducks was 51-70 eggs/year. Duck plague (22.22%) and cholera (25%) were the common diseases threatening duck production and 50% farmers failed to vaccinate their birds against the major diseases. According to 70% respondents, mongoose and jackal were the main predators. A majority of the famers (90%) mentioned that unavailability of sufficient amount of broody hen and rice husk incubators were the main constraints of successful backyard duck farming. Commercial duck farmer (100%) agreed that lack of good breed was the main constraints. Most of the farmers agreed that lack of finance, disease and predators, inadequate veterinary service were the main challenges for duck production. In conclusion, it can be said if the constraints and challenges of duck farming mentioned in this study can be addressed properly, the commercial and backyard duck farmers in the Shibpur upazila could be economically more benefitted.