Quacking the Code: Ducks, Pests and Eco-Friendly Farming

Fowl Play or Farm Genius? Ducks in Action!

• This vineyard in South Africa uses 500 ducks for eco-friendly pest control.
• The ducks eat pests that threaten grape production, eliminating the need for pesticides.
• This natural approach is part of a growing movement in green agriculture.

Why Natural Pest Control Matters

• Chemical pesticides can harm pollinators, pollute water and degrade soil.
• Using animals for pest control offers a sustainable, regenerative alternative.
• These methods align with global goals for climate-smart agriculture and safer food systems.

Students will work in small groups to research and give a presentation on animals used for natural pest control in farms or gardens, promoting sustainable agriculture.

Instructions

1. Divide students into small groups (three or four per group).
2. Provide or display a short list of example animals or let students brainstorm.
3. Have each group choose one animal to research.

Students will answer the following questions:

• What animal is used for pest control?
• What pests does it help manage?
• Where is this practice used (country, region or type of farm)?
• Why is it a sustainable alternative to chemicals?
• What is one fun, weird or unexpected fact about the animal or its role?

Presentation Options

• A one- or two-minute oral presentation
• Or a simple visual aid: mini-poster, Google Slide, or index card with a sketch and key facts
• Teacher Tip: Use index cards or half-sheets to make visuals low-prep and easy to display.

Deliverables

Each group shares:

• Animal name and image or sketch
• What pest it helps control
• Where and how it’s used
• Why it's a sustainable method
• One fun or surprising fact

Wrap-Up Option

Create a classroom display or digital slide deck titled Nature’s Pest Patrol that compiles each group’s findings. Optional: Have students vote on the "most surprising" or "most effective" animal ally.