Does Petco Sell Ducks In 2024?

Despite selling a variety of birds and accessories for bird owners, Petco confirmed that as of January 2023, it does not offer live ducks for purchase at any retail locations. However, some useful duck supplies and veterinary services are available.

Key Reasons Petco Doesn‘t Sell Ducks

While no official policy is published, store associates provided insight on why ducks aren‘t sold:

• Local ordinances restricting urban duck ownership without permits
• Inability to meet extensive space and housing requirements
• Noise level and odor concerns in retail spaces

Petco‘s focus remains companion animals like cats, dogs, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and some birds. Livestock like ducks don‘t align with store capabilities.

Overview of Municipal Laws on Ducks

Keeping ducks and other poultry is prohibited in many dense urban areas without proper licensing. For example:

• New York City bans ducks and geese as pets under health code 161.01
• Los Angeles limits poultry and fowl to designated zones
• Chicago prohibits any "farm animal" lacking permit

So municipal laws play a large role in which animals stores like Petco can legally sell.

Duck Care Challenges in Retail Settings

Ducks have extensive habitat requirements that pet stores struggle to meet:

Housing Needs

• Access to pond/pool for swimming
• Nesting boxes for egg-laying females
• Outdoor grazing area with shelter

Other Considerations

• Social animals needing duck companion
• Heat lamps for baby ducklings
• Cleanup of copious waste
• Louder vocalizations than many birds

Proper duck care requires space and facilities that a retail shop doesn‘t provide.

How Does Petco Support Duck Owners?

For those who obtain ducks elsewhere, Petco offers helpful products and services:

Duck Food and Treats

• Specialty duck/waterfowl feeds
• Insect and veggie treats
• No artificial preservatives

Supplies

• Durable plastic kiddie pools for swimming
• Non-tip water and food bowls
• Housing disinfectants to prevent illness

Veterinary Care

• Access to avian vets for exams, lab work, surgery

So they accommodate duck owners even without selling the ducks directly.

Where Can You Buy Ducks?

Those able to properly care for them should check local:

• Livestock farms and 4H members selling poultry
• Feed supply stores partnering with area breeders
• Small pet stores specializing in exotic birds
• Waterfowl breeders with licensing to sell regionally

Adult duck prices average $15 – $55 depending on breed, sex, and age.

Top Beginner Breeds

When able, get at least two ducks for companionship. Prepare their habitat in advance before bringing them home.

Estimated Costs of Duck Ownership

Beyond the ducks themselves, owners face expenses like:

• Feed: $20-50 per month
• Housing: $150+ for materials plus maintenance
• Bedding: $15-25 per month, more without outdoor access
• Veterinary care: $100+ annually

So first-time buyers should budget for recurring costs of proper care.

Conclusion

Petco refrains from duck sales due to municipal regulations and care challenges. With zoning permits and adequate facilities, they can make engaging pets. While Petco doesn‘t sell ducks directly, they help owners by providing key supplies. Connect with local farms and breeders to purchase ducks after completely preparing their habitat.