Color Breeding in Domestic Ducks

There are many factors that may concern potential owners when considering the purchase of a pet duck. Size, personality and ability to get along with people are three of those factors. However, color and plumage also count. The breeding of the duck accounts for many factors, including the duck's plumage and coloring.

  1. Pekin

    • The Pekin duck is perhaps the one that most people are familiar with and it is also the most popular duck that is taken as a pet. The Pekin duck, first imported to the United States from China in 1873, is white in color with an orange beak. The temperament is said to be even. Pekin ducks have large bodies and skinny legs and are prone to leg injuries. They cannot fly. The Pekin duck is on many restaurant menus as a "Peking" duck.

    Rouen

    • The Rouen duck is another popular breed and it closely resembles the mallard when it is fully mature. It usually has a green head and face and a brown patch below a white neck ring. This breed originated in France and is said to be calm with people. A Rouen is too heavy to fly.

    Cayuga

    • The Cayuga duck is one of the most striking breeds. It is dark black with shimmering green feathers. As the Cayuga gets older, the feathers tend to turn lighter. Cayuga ducks were first bred in Cayuga County, New York. They are one of the few breeds to originate in the United States.

    Raising Ducks

    • If you are interested in raising a duck as a pet or putting ducks in shows, it's best to be familiar with their characteristics. Ducks are fully grown in 30 days and often live for 10 to 20 years. Ducks can peck and pinch in an aggressive manner. Ducks are messy eaters and cannot be potty trained since they have no sphincter muscles. It is considered inhumane to cage a duck. Ducks need daily care, including clean water for swimming and drinking, a clean, dry bed and a proper diet. Neglecting these factors can result in the duck's death.