Waterfowl - Ducks and Geese
Practical, peaceful, and perfect for Aussie farms and homesteads.
At The Poodle and The Hen, we breed a small selection of backyard and exhibition quality waterfowl that thrive in the Australian environment.
Our focus is on hardy, friendly, and productive breeds that suit family farms, hobby properties, and anyone wanting a little more diversity beyond chickens.
Whether you're dreaming of ducks paddling in your dam or a pair of geese guarding the orchard, waterfowl bring charm, character, and real utility to your backyard setup.
Waterfowl Breeds We Raise
We currently breed the following ducks and geese for backyard farms and exhibitors
Pekin Ducks
Pekin ducks are the classic white, waddling ducks you’re probably picturing when you think of backyard poultry. Known for their calm nature and fast growth, Pekins are fantastic layers and also make great meat birds.
They’re active, alert, and easy to care for which makes them perfect for first-time duck owners.
These ducks are one of the best backyard duck breeds in Australia, thanks to their adaptability and reliable egg production.
They thrive in small flocks, enjoy foraging, and are particularly well-suited to life alongside chickens.
Muscovy Ducks
Unlike most domestic ducks, Muscovy ducks don’t quack, instead they make a quiet hissing sound, making them ideal for suburban or low-noise setups.
Muscovies are a large, muscular breed known for their excellent meat qualities, strong broody instincts, and ability to thrive with minimal care.
Muscovy ducks are fantastic for controlling pests in the garden, foraging independently, and raising ducklings. They’re hardy in a range of climates and don’t require a dam or pond, a kiddie pool or water trough will do.
Emden/Embden Geese
Emden geese are large, striking white birds known for their fast growth and impressive size. They’re a great dual-purpose breed, suitable for both meat and visual appeal, and are particularly popular on hobby farms across Australia.
While Emden geese can be a little aloof, they’re effective guardians for other poultry and provide natural weed control in open paddocks. They’re best kept in pairs or small groups and need plenty of space to roam.
Toulouse Geese
Toulouse geese are a heavier, slower-moving breed with a gentle and friendly temperament. Their calm disposition makes them ideal for smaller farms and mixed flocks.
They’re reliable grazers, excellent for keeping pasture tidy, and can be kept as ornamental pets, egg producers, or meat birds.
Toulouse geese do well in pairs and are relatively low-maintenance, as long as they have clean water, shelter, and a secure paddock or enclosure.
Why Add Ducks or Geese to Your Flock?
Raising waterfowl offers unique benefits that chickens can’t match. Ducks and geese are:
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Excellent Foragers - Great for Natural Pest Control
Especially in gardens, orchards, and paddocks as they love slugs, snails, and insects
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Hardy and Weather-Resistant
Ducks in particular thrive in wet conditions
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Low Maintenance
Most ducks and geese are tough, disease-resistant, and require minimal intervention
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Highly Productive
From eggs to meat to manure, waterfowl offer great returns for small flocks
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Personality
From waddling Pekins to honking Toulouse, waterfowl can be surprisingly affectionate.
Do You Need a Dam to Keep Ducks and Geese?
No, you don’t need a dam or natural body of water to keep ducks or geese. A simple tub, trough, or kiddie pool with fresh water will keep them happy. What they do need is access to clean water deep enough to dunk their heads in, which helps with preening and eye health.
Ensure they also have dry shelter, secure fencing (especially at night), and appropriate feed and bedding and they’ll reward you with years of enjoyment.
Buy Ducks and Geese in Australia
At The Poodle and The Hen, we offer backyard and exhibition quality waterfowl, including ducklings, goslings, periodically throughout the year. All of our birds are raised with care and attention to health and temperament.
Availability varies with the season, so we recommend joining our poultry waitlist to reserve birds or subscribe to our mailing list for updates.