In the context of the livestock industry constantly looking for new directions to increase economic efficiency and diversify animals, the model of raising Fulica atra at home is emerging as a potential solution. With the advantages of being easy to raise, less disease, low investment costs and a wide consumer market, raising Fulica atra is gradually becoming a new trend in many localities.
In recent times, raising Fulica atra has become a rising trend in various localities. These rare birds are not only admired for their striking appearance, but also highly valued economically, as they are considered gourmet delicacies and premium gift items. Particularly, the model of home-based farming of these birds has proven successful for many households thanks to low costs, simple techniques, and steady monthly profits.
Fulica atra is a type of aquatic bird, resembling wild ducks. It features a glossy black head and neck, reddish-brown eyes, a long pointed beak, and a white frontal shield. Adults typically weigh between 400 and 500 grams, though some can reach 700 grams. After about 3 months of rearing, the birds are ready for meat production. Naturally, they inhabit wetlands, ponds, and lakes rich in aquatic vegetation. During cold winters, they migrate southward and westward. These birds used to migrate to Vietnam and were once considered a local delicacy of the West Lake area in Hanoi.
Previously regarded as a wild and rare bird species, Fulica atra can now be domesticated and bred successfully, thanks to advances in animal husbandry and veterinary science.
Image of Fulica atra
I. ADVANTAGES OF RAISING FULICA ATRA AT HOME
Easy to Raise, Disease-Resistant: Compared to other ornamental or waterfowl species, these birds exhibit strong immunity and are less prone to common diseases, provided that the housing is hygienic and water sources are clean and consistent.
Low Investment Costs: Simple housing requirements; initial breeding stock is not expensive. Their diet consists mainly of pelleted feed, green vegetables, water hyacinths, small shrimp, and minnows.
Stable Market Demand: There is increasing demand from specialty restaurants, ecotourism resorts, and small-scale breeders, for both breeding and market-ready birds.
High Profitability: With commercial meat prices ranging from 250,000 to 350,000 VND per bird, farmers can earn a steady income through this model.
Image of Fulica atra
II. BASIC REARING TECHNIQUES
Housing And Environment
Raising Site: Utilize garden areas with ponds, or build cement tanks. Include a dry resting/nesting area. Ensure access to clean water for natural swimming and bathing. Incorporate aquatic plants or floating plastic rafts for resting.
Since Fulica atra are strong flyers, the area must be covered with netting and sheltered with roofing. For resting enclosures, use straw, rice husk, or plastic flooring to maintain hygiene. Ensure the area is dry, well-lit, and clean.
Feeding
Chicks (0–30 days old): Feed with commercial starter feed, boiled eggs, and finely chopped greens.
From 1 month of age: Transition to pelleted feed, morning glory, water hyacinth, duckweed, aquatic grasses, and small fish.
Supplements: Regularly provide probiotics or electrolyte solutions. For example, use ZYMTORIC (a probiotic) to balance gut microbiota and enhance digestion, and COOLVIT (a multivitamin-electrolyte blend) to improve resistance and maintain electrolyte balance.
Image of Fulica atra
Disease Prevention
Although generally healthy, vaccination is recommended for large-scale flocks.
Vaccination against critical diseases such as:
– Gumboro (Infectious Bursal Disease)
– Pasteurellosis (Fowl Cholera)
– Avian Influenza
Deworming: Every 2–3 months.
Maintain cleanliness of pens, ponds, and water tanks. Avoid stagnant, dirty water and overgrowth of algae or moss that may harbor pathogens.
Raising Fulica atra at home is not complicated—it requires low capital, has minimal risks, and products are easy to sell. For those who are passionate about animal husbandry and seeking innovative farming models, this is a promising direction to improve household income.