Orpington Duck

Orpington Duck

The Orpington Duck is a breed of domestic duck that is known for its versatility and good nature. It is a popular choice among backyard poultry enthusiasts and small-scale farmers alike.

History

The Orpington Duck was first bred in the late 19th century in Orpington, England, by a man named William Cook. Cook was a well-known poultry breeder who also developed the Orpington chicken. The duck breed was created by crossing Rouen, Indian Runner, and Cayuga breeds.

Characteristics

Orpington Ducks are large, with drakes typically weighing between 7-8 pounds and ducks weighing 6-7 pounds. They have a broad, heavy body with a low carriage, making them excellent for meat production. Their plumage is typically buff, but can also be found in black, blue, and chocolate. They have a calm and friendly temperament, making them excellent pets and good for families with children.

Breeding

Orpington Ducks are good layers, typically producing between 150-220 eggs per year. They are also known to be good mothers, often going broody and successfully hatching their own eggs.

Care and Management

Orpington Ducks require a clean, safe environment with access to fresh water and a balanced diet. They are hardy birds and can adapt to a variety of climates and conditions. They are also good foragers, which can help to reduce feed costs.

Uses

Orpington Ducks are considered a dual-purpose breed, meaning they are good for both meat and egg production. They are also popular as pets due to their calm and friendly nature.

Conservation Status

The Orpington Duck is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like many heritage poultry breeds, it is important to maintain genetic diversity within the breed to ensure its long-term survival.

See Also

• List of duck breeds
• Poultry farming
• Domesticated animals

References

• Holderread, Dave. Storey's Guide to Raising Ducks. Storey Publishing, 2011.
• Ekarius, Carol. Storey's Illustrated Guide to Poultry Breeds. Storey Publishing, 2007.