CHAPTER I

Background of the study

In the Philippines, duck production is a lucrative enterprise. It is a multi-billion-dollar

industry with a diverse group of stakeholders, including duck farmers, egg vendors, feed mills,
hatcheries, processors, and rice farmers, who gain both direct and indirect benefits from the
business. As of 30 June 2023, the country’s total production of ducks stood at 14.52 million birds
The Philippine Mallard duck (locally known as “itik”) is widely raised for balot
production, a staple in Filipino cuisine and a major economic driver in the duck industry.
(Escobin R.2009). However, the increasing cost of commercial feeds presents a significant
challenge, especially for smallholder farmers who rely on traditional feeding practices.
Using natural locally sourced feed alternatives can improve productivity while reducing
dependence on expensive commercial feeds. This approach can help farmers and raisers can
maximize profits with less expense on feeds consumption , support sustainable duck farming,
and contribute to the country’s growing poultry industry. (Sontakke 2014).
An important feed element is the Azolla (Azolla pinnata). It is a productive plant and a
genus of seven species of aquatic ferns in the Salviniaceae family. It is high in proteins and
mineral, fixes nitrogen and is palatable to chickens, ducks, pigs, goats, and cows, and can be
grown on any closed body of water (agrifarming 2020).
The multi-purpose tree Madre de agua (Trichantera gigantea) contains high crude protein
content of the foliage particularly the leaves and the thin stems, which are also consumed by the
animals and apparently most of that is true protein and has a good amino acid balance.(N.T Hong
Nhan.1997).
Mulberry leaves are rich in protein, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals,
making them a suitable feed supplement for various livestock, including ducks. According to
(Kandylis 2009), mulberry leaves contain up to 20–28% crude protein on a dry matter basis,
making them a viable protein source. Moreover, they possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, and
growth-promoting properties (Chen 2016).
Feeding ducks properly is a challenging act of balancing animal needs, production
methods, productivity, local tradition and feeding costs (Mavromichalis I.2013).
Nowadays, the high prices of raw materials in formulating feeds and making commercial
feeds have a great impact to duck raisers with regards to high cost of production. This issue is
usually dejecting duck raisers due to low profit concern.
Therefore the aim of the researchers to update farmers, raisers, teacher, students to find
out if Azolla, Madre de Agua, Mulberry leaves will provide a good result in terms of growth
performance to mallard duck through the conduct of a study entitled “The Effect of Different
Feed Supplements on the Growth Performance of Mallard Ducks (Anas platyrhynchos).”
Statement of the problem

This study was conducted to determine the effect of different feed supplements on the
early growth of mallard duck

Specially, this study sought to answer the following questions:

1. What are the effects of different feed supplements in terms of growth performance
2. Is there signifancant difference among the growth performance of mallard duck applied
with different feed supplements
3. Which of the different feed supplements will give the best result on the early growth of
mallard duck

Hypothesis
This study was conducted to prove the following hypothesis:

A. Null Hypothesis (Ho)

There is no significant difference among the growth performance of mallard duck (Anas
platyrhynchos) fed with commercial ration mixed with different feed supplements Azolla meal,
Mulberry leaf, Madre de Agua leaf.

Objectives of the study

The following were the objectives of the study:

1. To analyze the growth performance of Mallard ducks fed with different feeds
supplements.

2. To determine the most effective supplementation in terms of weight gain, feed

conversion ratio (FCR), and overall health.

3. To explore the economic viability of integrating natural feeds into duck farming.

Significance of the study

The result of this study would be useful to raisers as a source of information on how
mallard duck grow rapidly with use of natural feed supplements. It helps raisers increase their
income and reduce the reliance on expensive commercial feeds.
This study would also serve as valuable reference and information to student researcher
who wants to make or conduct similar studies.
Scope and Limitation of the study

This study focused on the effects of different feed supplements on the growth
performance of mallard duck. This was conducted at Brgy. Goling, Diplahan Zamboanga
Sibugay having an area of 48 sq. meter with close range area. There were 4 treatments each
treatment was replicated 4 times. This was conducted from January to April 2026.

Operational Definition of Terms

To have a clear understanding of the terms that were use in the study, the following are
hereby defined:

Ad libitum refers to the feeding method employed in the study wherein food and water were
made available to the ducks at all times;

Azolla meal refers to fresh Azolla leaf meal which used in fed mixtures and become a feeder
during the conduct of a study;

Brooding refers to the provision of artificial heat and shelter to the ducklings from day one up to
the 14th day to maintain their body temperature and ensure proper early development;

Commercial ration it refers to a readily mixed feeds supplied by a reputable dealer to the
consumer. In this study, refers to Purina Starter that was fed to the ducklings from the first day of
brooding up to 14th day and and Purina Grower to 15th day to 84th day of operation;

Growth refers to the increase in body weight of the ducks over a specific period during the;
study;

Growth Performance refers to the average final weight, weight gain, and average daily gain
(ADG) measured during the conduct of the study;

Madre De Agua leaf meal refers to fresh Madre De Agua leaf meal which used in the fed
mixtures and become a feeder during the conduct of a study;

Mulberry leaf meal refers to fresh fresh Mulberry leaf meal which used in the fed mixtures and
become a feeder during the conduct of a study;

Supplemented Feed refers to the regular feed mixed with additional nutrients or natural
additives used to evaluate effects on duck performance;
CHAPTER II

A review of related literature and studies of mallard duck are presented in this chapter which
include origin and zoological description, housing management, space requirement ducklings,
lighting requirements, feeding requirements, water management, vaccination, disease
management.

Related Literature
 Origin of the Mallard Duck. Humans have domesticated various duck species for
purposes such as egg and meat production, as well as ornamental use and pest control in
agriculture. Mallard ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) are considered the primary ancestors of most
domestic duck breeds. They are native to North America, Europe, and Asia, and have adapted to
various wetland habitats. Due to their widespread distribution and adaptability, mallards can
interbreed with other duck species, influencing both wild and domestic duck populations (Bird
Encyclopedia 2005).
Mallards raised for meat and egg production are commonly referred to as domesticated
mallards. These ducks have been selectively bred for desirable traits such as rapid growth, high
feed efficiency, and enhanced reproductive performance. The demand for affordable and
sustainable duck meat has led to increased interest in mallard-based commercial duck farming.
Selective breeding and nutritional advancements have significantly improved the growth rate and
body mass of domesticated mallards, especially in the breast-muscle region (Poultry Science
Review 2010).
Modern hybrid mallards have been developed by crossing wild-type mallards with larger,
fast-growing domestic breeds. For instance, crosses between wild mallard drakes and heavy-
bodied Pekin duck hens have led to hybrids with improved meat yield and faster growth rates.
These hybrid ducks began to emerge in the 1940s and became more common in commercial
operations by the 1970s. However, early hybrids faced challenges such as reduced fertility,
slower growth, and higher vulnerability to diseases (Larson 2008).
Mallards used in commercial farming are usually hatched in incubators and transferred to
grow-out facilities within a day of hatching. They are raised in controlled environments until
they reach market weight and are then slaughtered. This process reflects the typical life cycle of a
commercially raised mallard duck (Steele 1923).
Modern hybrid mallards have been developed by crossing wild-type mallards with larger,
fast-growing domestic breeds. For instance, crosses between wild mallard drakes and heavy-
bodied Pekin duck hens have led to hybrids with improved meat yield and faster growth rates.
These hybrid ducks began to emerge in the 1940s and became more common in commercial
operations by the 1970s. However, early hybrids faced challenges such as reduced fertility,
slower growth, and higher vulnerability to diseases (Larson 2008).

Zoological Description Mallard ducks (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus), a domesticated

form of the wild mallard, are commonly raised for both meat and egg production. Males
typically exhibit a glossy green head and white neck ring, while females are generally mottled
brown, both sexes possessing a distinctive iridescent blue wing patch. Domesticated mallards are
often harvested for meat at around eight (8) to twelve (12) weeks of age, with an average body
weight ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 kilograms, depending on breed and nutrition (Smith, Johnson, &
Reyes, 2015).
Due to selective breeding for rapid growth and efficient feed conversion, commercial
mallards often face challenges related to animal welfare. Studies show that intensive farming
practices can result in physical issues such as leg disorders, skeletal deformities, and
cardiovascular complications in fast-growing birds (Johnson & Lee, 2012). Additionally, limited
space and environmental enrichment in commercial rearing systems can negatively affect their
natural behaviors, leading to stress and behavioral issues (Brown, 2018).
According to Davis (2013), although many duck breeds exist, only a few are raised on a
commercial scale due to their adaptability and productivity. Prominent among these are the Pekin
duck, known for its fast growth and tender meat, the Khaki Campbell, valued for egg production,
and the Rouen duck, favored for its size and meat quality. These breeds are often used in hybrid
combinations to enhance desirable traits such as carcass yield, disease resistance, and
environmental adaptability.
Housing management The proper housing preparation is essential for the health and
productivity of mallard ducks, particularly during brooding and early growth stages. According
to the (U.S. Broiler Industry 2012), poultry houses and equipment must be thoroughly cleaned,
disinfected, and air-dried for at least ten days before introducing young birds. This practice
minimizes disease risk and ensures a safe environment. Feeders and drinkers must be functional,
and the temperature must reach the required level at least 12 hours before the arrival of
ducklings.
Mallard ducks, like other poultry, require a dry and draft-free environment. Drafts can
cause stress and increase susceptibility to disease. Constructing houses with windows and doors
that allow for adjustable ventilation can significantly improve air quality and comfort (Clauer,
2002). Housing should be located on elevated, well-drained land to prevent dampness and water
saturation of the floor. Proper orientation of the housing such as positioning windows and open
runs to the south can help maintain warmth and dryness through solar exposure.
Space is another crucial consideration. Adequate space per duckling reduces humidity
and improves air circulation, both of which are vital to maintaining a healthy environment
(Clauer, 2002). Insufficient space can lead to higher stress levels and increased disease
transmission among birds.
Dozier (2014) emphasized that broiler production, which shares similarities with mallard
duck brooding, requires specialized housing that controls temperature, moisture, air quality, and
lighting. These factors are critical in ensuring proper growth and minimizing mortality. The setup
should also allow for easy installation and operation of feeding, watering, and other essential
equipment.
Space requirement The space allocation is essential in ensuring the health and
productivity of mallard ducks. During the brooding stage, it is recommended to place a
maximum of fifty (50) ducklings per square meter of floor space to ensure adequate warmth and
comfort (Lambio, 2010).
As ducks progress to the rearing stage, sufficient space is required to support their growth
and prevent stress-related issues. Mallard ducks raised in an indoor environment should be
allocated at least 1 square foot per bird to avoid overcrowding and promote natural behavior. It is
crucial to maintain proper floor spacing throughout the entire growth period to enhance welfare
and optimize development (Card, 1982).
Lighting requirements Lighting is another critical factor that influences the behavior,
growth, and reproductive performance of mallard ducks. Proper lighting helps regulate feeding
patterns and improves weight gain. According to Card (1982), ducklings require 20 to 22 hours
of light per day during the brooding period to encourage feeding activity. As they grow older,
lighting hours can be gradually reduced. Maintaining appropriate light intensity is also important,
as insufficient lighting may lead to reduced activity and feed consumption, while excessive
lighting can cause stress and restlessness.
Feeding requirements Feeding plays a significant role in the overall health and growth
rate of mallard ducks. Balanced rations containing essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins,
and minerals are necessary, especially during the early stages of development. According to
Gillespie (1997), ducklings should be fed high-protein starter feeds in their first weeks to support
rapid growth. As ducks mature, feed formulations should be adjusted to meet maintenance and
reproductive needs. Clean, fresh water must be made available at all times, as ducks require
water not only for hydration but also to aid in digestion (Lambio, 2010).
Water management Is a critical component in the care and growth of mallard ducks,
particularly during early development. Access to clean and adequate water supplies is essential
for optimal health and performance. Saul (2008) emphasized that in poultry systems, a float-
controlled water supply offering 2 cm per bird is generally sufficient. While this guideline is
based on broilers, similar principles can be applied to small flocks of mallard ducklings. For
instance, a drinker of four liters or more per 100 ducklings is often suitable, with smaller cups or
nipple systems being adequate for fewer birds.
Water quality also plays a significant role in the ducks’ performance. Ducklings, much
like chicks, have a body water content of approximately 80 percent at hatching, highlighting the
need for high-quality water (West, 2000). Contaminants such as bacteria, nitrogen, and excess
minerals can reduce water quality and negatively impact growth and overall health. Poor water
conditions may lead to decreased feed intake and impaired development.
Water supports essential physiological processes such as thermoregulation, digestion, and
tissue formation. Mallard ducks typically require water at 1.5 to 2 times the amount of feed
consumed by weight. As noted by Sainsbury (1988), any reduction in water intake can lead to
reduced feed consumption and impaired feed conversion ratios. Even though many poultry
growers recognize the importance of water, lapses in daily water management can lead to
inconsistent water quality and availability.
Disease management A clean and stress-free environment, supported by good nutrition
and water management, further reduces susceptibility to infections (Gillespie, 1997).
Preventing and controlling disease is critical in maintaining a healthy flock of mallard
ducks. Biosecurity measures such as restricting farm access, disinfecting equipment, and
isolating new or sick birds help reduce the risk of disease outbreaks. According to Saeed et al.
(2008), common diseases affecting ducks include duck viral enteritis, avian cholera, and
botulism, which can cause significant mortality if not managed properly. Vaccination programs,
regular health monitoring, and prompt veterinary intervention are essential components of
effective disease management.
 CHAPTER III

This chapter presents the materials methods that we use in the study.
Materials
Field Equipment. The equipment use in the study included four block (4) units of 43m x
43m net fences, a solar lamp, feeding and watering troughs, a weighing scale, leg bands, a knife,
a ball pen, a record notebook, a camera, empty feed bags, laminated sacks or “Trapal”, bulbs,
and a 3 meters length and 1 meter width brooder. These tools and equipment were essential for
the proper fences, feeding, and monitoring of the mallard ducklings throughout the study. Poultry
fences, brooder, feeding and waterering throughs, weighing scale, ballpen record book, camera,
empty feed sacks, net fence, bulb.
Farm inputs. The farm input used are the following:
Mallard duck. One hundred twenty eight (128) heads of ducklings were used in the study.

Laminated sacks. Laminated sacks was used as a material for covering of the side brooder at
night time and day time when the weather is not good.

Net fence. Net fences are used to keep mallard ducks within a designated area.

Feeds. Commercial feeds such as Purina Starter was use to fed the ducklings at the first day (1 st)
up to day fourteenth (14th) and Purina Grower was use to fed the ducklings from fifthteenth (15th)
up to the eighty-fourth (60th) raising of the mallard duck.

Rice bran . Rice bran mixed into commercial feed ration

Azolla meal. Azolla meal mixed into commercial feed ration as supplement.

Mulberry leaf. Mulberry leaf mixed into commercial feed ration as supplement.

Copra meal. Copra meal mixed into commercial feed ration as supplement.

Methods
The Poultry house and Facilities Preparation. The area at the Barangay Goling, Diplahan
Zamboanga Sibugay, was utilized for the conduct of the study involving mallard ducks. The duck
house and its surroundings were thoroughly cleaned. Brooders, net fences, drinkers, and feeders
were washed with detergent soap and water, sun-dried, and disinfected. This disinfection process
was conducted one (1) week before the arrival of the ducklings to eliminate any potential
presence of microorganisms that could lead to disease outbreaks.
LED lights were installed in the duck house to ensure adequate lighting, and electric
bulbs were prepared one week prior to the start of the experiment.
Brooding preparation. A brooder measuring 2 meters in length and 1 meter in width was
prepared to accommodate the mallard ducklings. Three (3) pieces of 50-watt incandescent bulbs
were installed inside the brooder. These were set up one week prior to the arrival of the ducklings
to ensure a warm and stable environment. Empty feed sacks were prepared and placed on every
side of the brooder. These served as insulation and were used to cover the brooder at night-time.
This setup helped prevent the entry of drafts that could potentially cause respiratory problems in
the ducklings.
Procurement of Mallard Ducklings. The mallard ducklings were procured in Barangay.
Goling Diplahan Zamboanga Sibugay Province were the area we conducted. A total of one
hundred twenty-eight (128) mallard ducklings were purchased
Experimental design. The study was laid out using a Randomized Complete Block
Design (RCBD) with four (4) treatment and. Random numbers generated from the calculator
were used in the distribution of treatments to each rearing compartment in every fences by
ranking them from highest to lowest.

Factor and Treatments. There is three factor being considered in this study; the different effect of
Mulberry leaf meal, Azolla meal, Rice bran Copra meal

The treatments are the following:

T¹ - Control (1000) Pure Commercial Ration
T² - Purina Grower + Mulberry leaf meal 50:50 ratio
T³ - Purina Grower + Azolla meal 50:50 ratio
T⁴ - Purina Grower + Rice bran Copral meal 50:50 ratio

Fence Lay-out. Using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD)

REFERENCE
Philippine Statistics Authority. (2023). Duck Situation Report: April–June 2023.
Retrieved on 22 August 2023 from [Link]
 Escobin R, Medialdia T, Caramihan CF. Quality of ‘balut’ (fertilized duck egg) produced
in four rice-duck zones of Laguna. Philippine. J Vet Animal Sci. 2009:35.

Sontakke, U., Kale, V., Bose, B. and Kumar, M., (2014). Non-Conventional Feeds and
Agro Industrial by Products: Their Scope and Future Demand for Livestock Production (Dairy
Cattle Nutrition Division National Dairy Research Institute). Retrieved: Sept. 5,
[Link]://[Link]/feed-machinery/articles/[Link].

Jagdish. (2020, July 12). Azolla as Livestock Feed (Animals/Poultry/Fish). Agri Farming.
Retrieved September 5, 2022, from [Link]
poultryfish

Kandylis, K., Hadjigeorgiou, I., & Harizanis, P. (2009). The nutritive value of mulberry
leaves (Morus alba) as a feed supplement for sheep. Livestock Science, 123(1), 97–100.

Chen, H., Pu, J., Liu, D., et al. (2016). Mulberry leaf extract improves growth
performance and antioxidant status of broilers. Animal Nutrition, 2(1), 63–67.

N.T Hong Nhan. (1997). “Use of Trichantera gigantea leaf meal and fresh leaves as
livestock feed.” Available: [Link]/ag/aga/agap/frg/LRRD9/1/[Link]. [January 2013].

Shamna, T. P., Peethambaran, P. A., Jalaludeen, A., Joseph L. and aslam M. K., (2013).
Broiler characteristics of japenese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) at different levels of diet
substitution with Azolla pinnata. Anim. Sci. Reporter, 7 (2): 75-80.

Avian Behavior Studies. (2008). Wild duck behavior and adaptation. Waterfowl Research
Press.
Bird Encyclopedia. (2005). The natural history of waterfowl. Global Wildlife
Publications.

Larson, P. R. (2008). Hybrid ducks in commercial farming. Agricultural Breeding

Journal, 34(2), 112–119.

Poultry Science Review. (2010). Nutritional strategies for enhancing duck meat
production. 22(4), 45–60.
 Steele, M. T. (1923). The life cycle of a domesticated duck. Hatchery Journal, 5(1), 3–9.

Brown, L. M. (2018). Behavioral patterns in domesticated waterfowl under confined

rearing conditions. Journal of Avian Welfare, 22(3), 135–144.

Davis, R. T. (2013). Commercial duck breeds and hybrid vigor: A production guide.
Poultry Science and Industry Review, 45(2), 88–97.

Johnson, P. R., & Lee, A. S. (2012). Physiological effects of rapid growth in domesticated
ducks. Veterinary Poultry Health, 37(1), 56–64.

Smith, J. M., Johnson, T. R., & Reyes, F. D. (2015). Growth performance and carcass
characteristics of mallard ducks in commercial farming systems. Waterfowl Science Quarterly,
18(4), 211–223.
Clauer, P. J. (2002). Raising Ducks. Virginia Cooperative Extension.

Dozier, W. A. (2014). Broiler Housing and Equipment. Auburn University Extension.

U.S. Broiler Industry. (2012). Broiler Production Manual. U.S. Department of

Agriculture.
Sainsbury, D. (1988). Poultry health and management: Chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese,
game birds and quail (4th ed.). Granada.
Card, L. E. (1982). Poultry Production. Interstate Publishers.
Gillespie, J. R. (1997). Modern Livestock and Poultry Production. Delmar Publishers.
Lambio, A. L. (2010). Poultry Production in the Tropics. University of the Philippines
Press.
Saeed, M., Pirzada, W. H., & Malik, M. A. (2008). Diseases of Poultry and Their Control.
Pakistan Agricultural Research Council.