My fascination with ducks stems from their versatility and my early experiences raising them on our homestead. Initially, I started with white hybrid layers for their egg production, later transitioning to Pekins which combine similar appearances with faster growth rates and slightly reduced egg-laying. The Muscovy breed also caught my attention due to its reputation as an all-around excellent choice for homesteaders.
As I continued to explore the world of ducks, I began to try out various breeds, driven by a desire to gain experience with each type. With a dedicated brooder and ample space at our disposal, it was only natural that I would want to experiment with different breeds. And since I work from home, trying multiple breeds has proven to be an effortless endeavor.
However, not everyone may have the time or resources to try out every breed.
In such cases, choosing the perfect duck breed for your homestead can seem like a daunting task. Fear not! With some simple guidelines and considerations, you too can narrow down your options and find the ideal breed for your needs.
If You Are A Duck Lover
Those who choose to raise ducks over more conventional options like chickens are often driven by a passion that goes beyond the practical benefits of egg-laying or meat production. Perhaps it’s the unique charm of watching them swim, or the allure of harvesting rich and flavorful eggs from these charming birds. Whatever the reason, it’s likely that you, like me, have been won over by the appeal of ducks.
As you prepare to embark on your own duck-keeping journey, take a moment to reflect on what specifically draws you to these fascinating creatures. This introspection will help you narrow down the many breeds of ducks to find the one that best suits your needs and lifestyle.
Reality Check – What If You’re Not?
If you’re not a fan of ducks, no worries! This post isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for alternatives, we have posts on chickens, goats, rabbits, and pigs that might be more up your alley. However, if you’re willing to overlook some drawbacks, then let’s dive into the reasons why ducks aren’t always a top choice for homesteaders. To start, ducks can be quite messy, loud, and require a kiddie pool for grooming, which means they’ll splash water everywhere.
Additionally, they intentionally backwash and poop in their water, making it difficult to keep clean. Furthermore, ducks have higher protein needs than chickens, which increases the cost of their feed. They’re also subject to more legal regulations due to being waterfowl, and can be harder to socialize compared to chickens. Processing duck meat is also a bit trickier than chicken meat. Duck egg shells are more porous, reducing their shelf life compared to chicken eggs.
Moreover, ducks nest in the ground, making it challenging to keep eggs clean for collection. Incubating duck eggs requires specific humidity conditions and takes longer to hatch, with lower hatch rates compared to chickens. While there may be more reasons why ducks aren’t ideal, if these 11 points haven’t deterred you, then you’re likely a duck enthusiast! That means you’re ready to explore breed selection.
Prioritize Your Needs
Now that you’ve compiled your list of reasons why you’re drawn to ducks, it’s time to prioritize them in a logical order. Does the allure of farm-fresh duck eggs take top billing? Or perhaps the prospect of cultivating nutrient-rich soil with their manure takes precedence? Maybe the idea of savoring succulent duck breast and indulging in crispy duck fat fries is what really gets your feathers ruffled.
On the other hand, do you simply want to harness the benefits of ducks for slug control or other environmental purposes? Whatever your motivations, acknowledging them will allow you to streamline your selection process by focusing on the key characteristics that matter most to you, and subsequently, making informed decisions about the type of duck best suited to meet those needs.
Imagine Your Future Ducks
As you envision the life your ducks will lead, consider the kind of environment you want to provide for them. Do you picture them roaming freely in a spacious run with a charming duck house and mini-pond, or perhaps sleeping on the surface of a deep pond for predator protection? Maybe they’ll nest in brush around the pond edge and raise their own ducklings in the wild. Alternatively, you might let them graze during the day and retire to a secure shelter at night.
The way you plan to raise your ducks will help you identify the breeds that best fit your homesteading vision. For instance, Muscovy ducks are half-wild and excel in free-ranging environments. In fact, I’ve seen female Muscovies nest openly and successfully raise their young without incident – as long as they have total freedom of movement and ample escape routes like ponds, trees, thickets, and over/under fencing.
However, breeds like the Khaki Campbell, renowned for their high egg production, may not be well-suited to complete free-ranging. Since they spend considerable time laying eggs each morning, they become vulnerable ‘sitting ducks’ during hawk hunting hours. Instead, consider providing them with a secure area for laying – an arrangement that prioritizes their safety and productivity.
The Best Duck Breeds for the Homestead
As you continue to envision your ideal backyard ecosystem, take a moment to review the breed summaries. Pay particular attention to the top duck breeds that seem like a natural fit for your unique environment.
Ancona Ducks
The Ancona duck is a stunning breed that originated in England, where it’s currently on the watch list for conservation efforts. Due to their limited flying abilities, they’re best suited for use in protected pastures, deep ponds, or duck runs. While they’re not as active as some other breeds, Anconas require at least a part of each day to stretch their legs and forage.
When given suitable space, these ducks excel at finding food, making them an excellent choice for small-scale farming or backyard homesteads. As laying ducks, they produce 210-280 eggs per year, with some hens continuing to lay throughout the winter months. Eggs can range in color from white to tinted, blue-green, and spotted. One of this breed’s most notable features is its rapid growth rate, making it a viable meat source option. Males typically reach around 6.
5 pounds at maturity, while females are only slightly smaller.
Aylesbury Ducks
The Aylesbury Duck, another breed originating from England, faces critically low populations. This majestic bird, capable of reaching 10 pounds in weight (drakes) and 9 pounds for ducks, is an excellent choice for those looking to make a positive impact on their conservation status. Due to their substantial size and friendly nature, they thrive in protected environments with ample space for foraging.
However, it’s essential to supplement their diet, particularly when raising them for meat production, as they require significant feed. Notably, Aylesbury Ducks lay 35-125 extra-large white or slightly large eggs, including winter eggs. While their maternal instincts may not be exceptional, they excel in meat production, presenting a beautiful pink skin on the plate.
Buff or Orpington Duck
The Buff duck, also known as the Orpington, has its origins in England, where it is currently considered a threatened population. These dual-purpose ducks excel at providing both meat and eggs. Drakes typically weigh around 8 pounds, while females tip the scales at approximately 7 pounds. One of their most attractive features is their light pin feathers, which ensure they dress out nicely.
Their eggs are large and white or tinged with a subtle coloration, with production ranging from 150 to 220 per year. Notably, they continue to lay some winter eggs as well. When it comes to motherly instincts, Buffs make fair to good mothers. These ducks are relatively easy to manage, preferring to forage and thrive in large protected runs or even on natural ponds and protected pasture.
Campbell Duck
The Campbell ducks, an English native, are renowned for their exceptional egg-laying abilities and easy availability. With a remarkable annual yield of 250-340 eggs, this breed stands out as one of the top backyard laying duck options. Their large, white or tinted eggs make them a popular choice among duck enthusiasts. Notably, these birds weigh only 4-4.5 pounds, resulting in lower feed costs compared to larger-bodied layers.
When it comes to foraging, Campbells excel, thriving in ponds or protected pastures. However, to ensure the safe collection of their eggs, it’s recommended to confine them until around 9:30 am, allowing you to gather their eggs from the run or house without compromising their well-being. As for their flying abilities, reports vary depending on the specific breed line. Generally, once they reach full weight and begin laying eggs, flight activity diminishes.
Nevertheless, some lines may exhibit more pronounced flightiness. If you’re concerned about this aspect, be sure to ask your breeder about the typical flight patterns in their Campbell ducks. Another viable alternative to consider is the Golden Cascade duck, which, although not yet recognized by the American Poultry Association (APA), has gained popularity for its excellent egg-laying capabilities.
Cayuga Duck
The Cayuga duck, originating from America, is a prized breed that excels as both a meat and egg producer. Weighing between 7-8 pounds at maturity, their large size makes them an excellent choice for those seeking to raise meat birds. However, their dark feathers can be a drawback for commercial processors, who often prioritize lighter-colored plumage.
While the Cayuga’s primary focus may not be egg-laying, they still manage to produce around 100-150 eggs per year, mostly during the warmer months. What’s more, their eggs undergo an intriguing transformation, beginning as black and gradually fading to white by the end of the laying season.
These ducks also make excellent mothers, thriving in environments like ponds, protected pastures, and larger enclosures.
Their foraging abilities are impressive, but it’s essential to provide them with ample shade to keep their dark feathers cool during warm weather.
Dutch Hookbill Duck
The critically endangered Wood Duck, a breed that has gained popularity in the Netherlands, requires preservation efforts to ensure its survival. One of its most distinctive features is its hooked bill, making it an attractive addition to backyard duck displays. These birds typically weigh between 3.5 and 6 pounds, depending on the specific breed line. They are prolific egg layers, producing large white to blue-green eggs at a rate of 100-225 per year.
However, egg production can vary between breed lines, so it’s essential to consult with your breeder for average yields. While they do fly, which provides some natural protection against predators, they also thrive in environments with natural ponds and pastures. Historically, they were often found along canal edges in their native habitat. As excellent foragers, they can sustain themselves if given sufficient space to roam.
Magpie Duck
In stark contrast to its crow family counterpart, the Magpie duck does not pose a threat to chicken flocks. While sharing similar black and white plumage, this breed’s name likely stems from a superficial resemblance rather than any malicious intentions. Hailing from Wales, the Magpie duck is a threatened species, making it an attractive option for homesteaders seeking a dual-purpose bird that excels in both egg production (200-290 eggs annually) and meat quality.
Characterized by white, medium-sized eggs and a moderate weight of 5-6 pounds, this breed also boasts impressive foraging abilities and thrives in natural environments such as ponds or pastures. Notably, males can be quite aggressive, necessitating a minimum ratio of five females to every male to prevent over-mating. Additionally, early socialization is crucial when taming young Magpies, as they retain some wild instincts and may exhibit high-strung behavior at times.
While requiring more attention and management, the Magpie duck’s unique characteristics make it an excellent choice for experienced livestock caretakers seeking a rewarding addition to their homestead.
Muscovy
Unlike traditional duck breeds, Muscovy ducks do not share a common ancestry with wild Mallards. In fact, breeding them with other domesticated duck species results in sterile offspring, similar to mules. This phenomenon has led to the term ‘Moulard’ being used to describe these crossbred birds. Originating from South America, Muscovy ducks are adapted to warm climates and exhibit limited cold hardiness, tolerating temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C) before requiring protection.
The original wild species display a uniform dark coloration, whereas commercial breeds have been developed with white plumage for meat production purposes. Domesticated Muscovy ducks typically present a mix of white and dark feathers. They thrive in regions with abundant waterways and foraging opportunities, primarily serving as a source of meat. Males can grow up to 12 pounds, while females reach around 6 pounds.
Male Muscovy ducks exhibit aggressive behavior during mating season, making it essential to maintain a ratio of at least five females per one male to minimize conflicts. Apart from these displays of aggression, the birds are remarkably quiet, with females communicating through hissing and elaborate head gestures rather than quacking. Female Muscovy ducks often prove excellent mothers, but some may abandon their eggs after 35 days, leaving their ducklings unattended.
In this case, it’s not uncommon for humans to take over parental responsibilities. Eggs are typically laid during the mating season, with females hiding their nests and becoming broody once they’ve accumulated around 10 eggs. Incubation takes a relatively longer period of 35 days compared to other duck breeds. These birds possess a unique blend of wild and domesticated traits.
If you’re looking for a self-sustaining meat source that can thrive in warm climates, the Muscovy breed has the potential to flourish on homesteads with proper management.
Rouen Ducks
The Rouen ducks have a rich history dating back to pre-1800s France. While they’re classified as meat ducks and can weigh up to 10 pounds, their charming personalities and stunning coloration make them an attractive choice for backyard enthusiasts. As they gain weight, they lose their flying ability, making them easy to manage in gardens with minimal fencing or raised beds. Their larger size also renders them less appealing to aerial predators.
Seasonal layers, Rouens produce around 60-120 eggs annually, but their large stature can make nesting a challenge. They may require access to a pond for proper mating, according to the Livestock Conservancy. While they might not be the most practical choice for self-sufficient meat production, Rouens are an excellent option for epicurean homesteaders with the right conditions. Alternatively, they can serve as delightful pets for those seeking companionship.
Runner Ducks
Malaysian runner ducks are making a comeback, thanks to their growing popularity on homesteads worldwide. Unlike other breeds, these birds don’t take to the skies; instead, they use their unique upright stance to run swiftly across the ground. My own runners have even developed the habit of jumping, occasionally scaling obstacles up to 2 feet high.
Weighing in at just 4-5 pounds, these ducks are surprisingly agile, navigating small spaces with ease due to their lightweight build and upright posture.
As a low-maintenance option for rotational paddocks or small gardens, runner ducks excel at adding fertility without crushing plants beneath their feet. The key to successful integration lies in avoiding overstocking – aim for one duck per 800 square feet of space – and regularly relocating them to prevent muddy patches from forming.
In addition to their impressive egg-laying abilities (yielding around 200-250 eggs annually), these ducks also boast an additional benefit: they’re a reliable choice for small-scale egg production. However, it’s essential to note that runner ducks often struggle with motherly instincts; expect to handle incubation or enlist the services of a more broody breed if you hope to successfully hatch their eggs.
Saxony
From Germany, the Saxony duck is a rare breed whose population is under threat. Standing tall at 8-9 pounds, this dual-purpose giant excels in laying 190-260 extra-large eggs per year, ranging from white to blue-green in color. While they take some time to mature for meat production, their high-quality, lean flesh dresses out nicely and can be self-renewing when raised as good mothers.
One of the breed’s most appealing aspects is its foraging ability, making it suitable for protected paddocks or large runs where docility and ease of management are key. Additionally, the Saxony duck boasts a majestic appearance that appeals to exhibition breeders.
Silver Appleyard
The Silver Appleyard is a valuable dual-purpose duck breed that requires preservation efforts to ensure its survival. For homesteaders seeking to cultivate this remarkable breed, the Silver Appleyard offers an excellent opportunity to make a positive impact. Weighing between 8-9 pounds, these ducks boast a deep, wide breast, making them well-suited for meat production. Additionally, they lay an impressive 200-270 large, white eggs per year, making them a reliable source of fresh produce.
Homesteaders appreciate the Silver Appleyard for its adaptability to pasture-based systems and ease of management. While some individuals may exhibit fair to good mothering abilities, they are not overly broody, making them a practical choice for self-sufficient homesteaders. The breed’s stunning appearance and versatility make it an excellent all-purpose duck for protected pastures or ponds.
Swedish Duck
The Swedish Duck is a versatile breed that hails from Germany and Poland. This breed excels in free-ranging environments, where its natural foraging instincts can thrive. While they enjoy being active, they tend to dislike confinement. With this characteristic, they’re well-suited for outdoor living arrangements. In terms of egg production, Swedish Ducks are capable of laying 100-150 large eggs per year, ranging in color from white to green. They also exhibit excellent mothering skills.
The females typically weigh around 6 pounds, while males reach a maximum weight of 8 pounds, making them an attractive option for free-range meat duck enthusiasts. Interestingly, this breed comes in blue and black color variations and is well-suited for cold climates.
Welsh Harlequin Duck
The Welsh Harlequin Duck, as its name suggests, originates from Wales. While their population is currently listed as being on the watch list, the increasing availability of this breed through hatcheries bodes well for their recovery. These charming birds possess a striking appearance and endearing personalities, making them one of my personal favorites. One of their notable characteristics is their egg-laying capacity, which can range from 240 to 330 white or tinted large eggs.
Additionally, their relatively small size, weighing in at around 5 pounds, makes their feed costs more manageable compared to larger breeds. Furthermore, they can be used as a meat duck due to their excellent dressing quality. As active birds with impressive foraging abilities, they thrive in environments such as pasture, paddocks, or natural ponds. They also excel in large duck runs and make devoted mothers.
However, it’s essential to note that their small size, light coloring, and gentle nature make them more susceptible to predation compared to other dual-purpose duck breeds. Nonetheless, the Welsh Harlequin Duck’s unique charm and desirable characteristics make them well worth the effort required to keep them safe.
Other Breeds
While this breed list is not exhaustive, there are other fascinating duck varieties worth exploring. The Shetland duck from Scotland, for instance, may become more accessible in the near future. If you’re looking to keep ducks primarily for their unique characteristics or as a novelty, exhibition breeds like the White Crested or Call ducks can be an entertaining option.
On the other hand, if you’re seeking a reliable source of eggs and meat, the Pekin duck is a classic choice that’s both prolific in its egg-laying abilities and suitable for butchering. Additionally, hybrid ducks bred specifically for heavy egg production are another excellent option for beginners.
However, once you’ve developed a taste for raising ducks, you may find that heritage breeds with rich histories and unique characteristics offer a rewarding experience, even if their egg-laying capacities or growth rates differ from those of other breeds.
Choose The Best Duck Breed For You
As you’ve defined your motivation for keeping ducks, visualized their care, and narrowed down potential breeds, it’s now time to build upon this foundation. While this primer provides an introduction to various breeds, it’s essential to conduct more in-depth research on your top choices before making a final decision. This involves consulting breeders and experienced keepers of those breeds to ensure their experiences align with your expectations.
Additionally, be prepared to place orders early, as ducklings can fly off the shelves during springtime. Rare breeds, in particular, may have limited buying options.
