Pet ducks typically live between 8 to 15 years when well cared for, with some breeds and individuals reaching up to 20 years or more in captivity. The average lifespan of domestic ducks is generally around 10 to 15 years, though this can vary by breed and care quality
. Key points about duck lifespans as pets include:
- Domestic ducks usually live longer than wild ducks, which often live 5 to 10 years due to predation and environmental challenges
- Some breeds like Muscovy ducks can live 18 to 20 years in captivity, while Pekin ducks often have shorter lifespans, around 5 to 10 years, due to their rapid growth and size
- Lifespan is influenced by factors such as breed, diet, housing, protection from predators, and veterinary care
- Exceptional cases exist, such as a Pekin duck recorded living up to 49 years, though this is very rare and not typical
In summary, with proper care, pet ducks can be long-lived companions, often living well beyond a decade and sometimes into their twenties
