Ducks don't generally NEED water to breed. Some heavier bodied types may, and it will usually increase fertility.
My ducks and geese breed in the water almost exclusively. The ducks will sometimes breed on the ground, but it's awkward for them. If the drakes/ganders have large, heavy bodies, it can be very difficult for them to properly fertilize the females on land, especially if they are inexperienced.
If you can at all possibly provide water for breeding, you should. Even a fairly shallow, small pool or something like a concrete mixing tub is sufficient.
As to the time, it's going to vary. If you have no reason to separate the pair (and it's usually better not to) I would leave them together and they will continue to breed throughout the laying period, increasing fertility levels.
They "need" water deeper than chickens so that they can submerge their bills and clear their nostrils. That has nothing to do with breeding, and is a requirement from the time they are hatchlings.
Pekins and Rouens are both heavy breeds, and should be given water to breed in if at all possible. They are also young, and can use all the help they can get.
My ducks and geese breed in the water almost exclusively. The ducks will sometimes breed on the ground, but it's awkward for them. If the drakes/ganders have large, heavy bodies, it can be very difficult for them to properly fertilize the females on land, especially if they are inexperienced.
If you can at all possibly provide water for breeding, you should. Even a fairly shallow, small pool or something like a concrete mixing tub is sufficient.
As to the time, it's going to vary. If you have no reason to separate the pair (and it's usually better not to) I would leave them together and they will continue to breed throughout the laying period, increasing fertility levels.
They "need" water deeper than chickens so that they can submerge their bills and clear their nostrils. That has nothing to do with breeding, and is a requirement from the time they are hatchlings.
Pekins and Rouens are both heavy breeds, and should be given water to breed in if at all possible. They are also young, and can use all the help they can get.
