Peep, peep, peep! Every spring since I started working at Buchheit’s that sound is music to my ears. That sound means the baby ducks have arrived! Given my position working in the farm department, I am usually the first to know. The thing that makes it extra special is clocking out, running straight home after work, grabbing the kids and coming straight back. I don’t know about you, but nothing makes me happier than seeing my boy light up when he sees the little peeping fluff balls. Oh yes, he knows that we will be taking some home especially if its just me and him, and we lucked out and left mom and the girls at home. Just kidding! I will get a couple if they are there too, maybe just not as many. It really doesn’t matter because we all love our ducks. What’s not to love? They quack, waddle, swim, eat bugs, and maintain a certain level of cuteness their entire life, along with all their usefulness.
Now you might ask “how is a duck useful?”. Let me count the ways. Well, they lay an egg about twice the size of a chicken egg. You want to talk about delicious! Their meat is superb and can be fixed so many different ways, it’s crazy. They make keeping water ways, ditches, and small ponds free from brush – a breeze. Pest control? Yes, they can handle that too. They eat everything from slugs to grass hoppers. And of course, being a beloved family pet is also useful. Just ask my kids.
Which breed of duck is right for you? You can pick from the classic all white Peeking to the upright Fawn Runner. If you happen to be driving by any Buchheit store around spring time just come on in. One of us will be ready and willing to help you make your choice. In the words of my beloved grandpa, “Lets take some time and figure out what you need.” As always, God bless you and yours from me and mine.
