Answer.—We have kept them till four years old with good results. If not forced they may be kept longer to advantage.
Question 14.—Is there a market for their eggs, and at what price?
Answer.—Pekin duck eggs sell readily in market, as they are much larger than the other duck eggs. They command from five to ten cents per dozen more than hen's eggs.
Question 15.—How much does it cost to keep a duck each season?
Answer.—From $1.75 to $2.00. They are gross feeders, of bulky food, but the greater number and value of the eggs in market over the average hen, makes the duck more profitable as an egg-producer than the hen.
Question 16.—At what season are the eggs of a duck most fertile?
Answer.—During the months of February, March, April and May, though they are usually fertile with us during January, June, and even July.
Question 17.—What per cent. of the eggs will usually hatch?
Answer.—That depends entirely upon how the mother-bird is cared for and fed. See formula for laying birds.
Question 18.—What is the average loss sustained in growing ducklings?