List of duck breeds

Ancona Ducks

List of Duck Breeds

Duck farming is a part of poultry farming that is dedicated to the raising of ducks for their meat, eggs, and feathers. Ducks have been domesticated for thousands of years, and over time, a variety of breeds have been developed to enhance certain traits such as egg production, meat quality, and ornamental appearance. This article provides an overview of some of the most well-known duck breeds around the world.

Domestic Duck Breeds

Egg Laying Breeds

• Khaki Campbell: The Khaki Campbell is renowned for its exceptional egg production, often laying over 300 eggs per year. They are a light-weight breed, making them less suitable for meat production.
• Indian Runner: Indian Runner ducks are unique for their upright posture and their ability to run rather than waddle. They are prolific layers, producing a good number of eggs annually.

Meat Breeds

• Pekin Duck: The Pekin duck is one of the most popular commercial duck breeds, known for its rapid growth rate and substantial meat yield. They have a white plumage and are often raised in large-scale poultry operations.
• Muscovy Duck: Muscovy ducks are distinctive for their caruncled face and lean, flavorful meat. They are less fatty than other duck breeds and can adapt to various climates.

Dual-Purpose Breeds

• Rouen Duck: The Rouen duck resembles the wild Mallard but is larger and heavier, making it suitable for both egg production and meat. They are known for their beautiful plumage and calm temperament.
• Saxony Duck: Saxony ducks are a relatively new breed that excels in both egg and meat production. They have a striking appearance with a unique color pattern.

Ornamental Breeds

• Mandarin Duck: Known for their extraordinary beauty, Mandarin ducks are often kept for ornamental purposes. They have vibrant plumage and are native to East Asia.
• Call Duck: Call ducks were originally bred for hunting, used as decoys to attract wild ducks. They are small in size and have a high-pitched call. Today, they are primarily kept as pets or for show.

Conservation Status

Some duck breeds are at risk of extinction, largely due to the commercial dominance of a few breeds and the loss of genetic diversity. Organizations such as the Livestock Conservancy work to protect these heritage breeds and promote their conservation.

Choosing a Duck Breed

When choosing a duck breed for farming or as a pet, it is important to consider the purpose (meat, eggs, or ornamental), the breed's temperament, and the care requirements including space and climate adaptability.