White ducks are a common sight in parks, ponds, farms, and backyards Their bright white plumage makes them easy to spot from a distance But did you know there are actually many different breeds of white ducks? In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular white duck breeds found around the world.
American Pekin
The American Pekin is the most widely raised duck breed in the United States It originated from the Pekin ducks brought to America from China in the 19th century.
Pekins have a large solid body and hold themselves at a 40 degree angle off the ground. Their feathers are a creamy white color. They have a yellowish orange bill and feet.
These ducks are primarily raised for meat production, as they grow very quickly and have a high meat yield. Over 50% of ducks raised for meat in the U.S. are Pekins.
Aylesbury
The Aylesbury duck comes from the town of Aylesbury in England. They have pure white feathers and a pinkish white bill and feet.
Aylesburys are a dual purpose breed, meaning they are raised for both meat and egg production. Hens can lay up to 200 eggs per year.
These ducks have a horizontal stance, which contrasts with the more upright Pekins. Aylesburys were once the most popular meat duck breed in England before Pekins were introduced from Germany and largely replaced them.
Rouen
Rouens originated in France and are another dual purpose meat/egg breed. They have a classic duck appearance with their deep, rounded body and horizontal carriage.
These ducks are also all white, but their shanks and feet are a dark gray or black color. Their bill is yellow or orange with a black bean. Rouen hens are excellent layers and may produce over 150 eggs per year.
Indian Runner
Indian Runners stand in an nearly vertical, upright posture. They have an elongated, thin appearance compared to other duck breeds.
Runners come in a wide array of color varieties, including a popular white morph. They have a dark bill and can produce 150-200 eggs annually.
This breed originated in India and Southeast Asia and was one of the first ducks brought to the United States. Their name comes from their tendency to “run” rather than waddle.
Call Duck
Call ducks are a very small breed, weighing only 1.5-2.5 pounds as adults. They were originally used as live decoys by hunters, hence their name.
The white call duck has a creamy white plumage, orange bill, and orange feet. They are active little ducks and the hens are good layers of small white eggs.
Call ducks are still kept by hunters today, but are more commonly raised as pets and show birds due to their diminutive size.
Welsh Harlequin
This rare duck breed originated in Wales during the late 19th century. They have unique plumage that is mostly creamy white, with some feathering in tones of silver and chocolate brown.
Welsh harlequins have an orange bill and legs. Hens lay a large number of extra large white eggs – as many as 250-300 per year!
These ducks are critically endangered, with estimations of less than 1000 breeding females left globally. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this heritage breed.
Silver Appleyard
Silver Appleyards are a heavy breed that was first developed in England in the 1930s. They have a lustrous white coat with each feather edged in black.
Their bill is yellowish green and legs are orange. Hens lay about 200 very large white eggs annually and are excellent sitters.
This dual purpose breed grows quickly and produces a good carcass for meat. Silver Appleyards almost became extinct but numbers have increased in recent years.
White Layer
White layers are a commercial meat duck strain that has been selectively bred for fast growth and high egg production. They have pure white plumage and orange legs and bill.
These ducks have a horizontal stance. Hens may lay over 300 eggs per year. White layers are docile and do well when raised with other poultry.
White Muscovy
Muscovy ducks originate from South America. The white variety has white or cream plumage and red skin on the face.
Unlike most ducks, muscovies are not descended from mallards. They perch in trees and have claws on their feet. The hens can lay over 100 eggs per year.
White muscovies are still found in the wild in parts of their native range, as well as domesticated. They are popular for both meat and egg production due to their fast growth.
White Pekin Bantam
Bantam ducks are miniature versions of standard duck breeds. The white Pekin bantam looks like a tiny American Pekin, with a creamy white coat and orange bill and legs.
Pekin bantams are about 1/4 the size of the regular Pekin duck. Their small size makes them a fun novelty for backyard duck keepers. Hens lay small white or tinted eggs.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, white ducks come in many shapes and sizes, from giant meat breeds like the Pekin to tiny bantams that would fit in your hand. Whether you’re looking to raise ducks for eggs, meat, or just for pets, there is a white duck breed that will fit your needs. With their bright white plumage, these ducks are a pleasure to have around the homestead.
what do ducks and tacos have in common?
“White Duck Taco Shop.” Cool name, right? But what do ducks and tacos have in common? Not too much, TBH…except they’re both pretty fly. (And taste even better with the right ingredients. Mole, for example!) So, how’d we get our name? It comes from our head chef – the White Duck, herself – “La Pata Blanca.”
In our neck of the woods…or side of the pond…La Pata Blanca leads our kitchen’s V formation. She keeps our ducks in a row and our team flying high. She’s fast-talking, energizing and always quacking with excitement about the next great flavor combo. Hence how she and we earned the name from our staff.
five white ducks
FAQ
What are the white ducks called?
PEKIN DUCKS
The Pekin has very soft white and cream feathers and a bright orange bill and feet. The soft nature of its feathers means too much mud should be avoided and if you are looking to breed these birds, they do require deep water.
Can white ducks survive in the wild?
The domestic duck has even less chance of surviving in the wild than your Labrador. Domestic ducks have zero ability to defend themselves: they do not have teeth as dogs do. They cannot run faster than an awkward speed-waddle, nor can they fly away to escape a predator attack.
How much is a white duck worth?
| Sex | 1-29 | 125+ |
|---|---|---|
| Straight Run | $9.19 | $6.86 |
| Male | $10.20 | $7.91 |
| Female | $12.43 | $9.18 |
Do Pekin ducks make good pets?
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Friendly and Docile:Pekin ducks are known for their calm and friendly demeanor, making them approachable and easy to handle, especially for children.
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Easy to Care For:They are relatively easy to care for, requiring a good diet, fresh water, and ample space to roam.
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Adaptable:Pekin ducks can adapt to various environments, including small yards or even urban settings, as long as they have access to a water source and a safe place to roost.
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Good Layers:Pekin ducks are known for being good layers, producing large, white eggs.
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Not Broody:Pekin ducks don’t tend to be broody (sit on eggs to hatch ducklings), which is a bonus for those primarily interested in egg production, as broody ducks stop laying during incubation.
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Physical Characteristics:Pekin ducks are a heavy breed, typically weighing around 8-9 pounds, with a solid white plumage, bright blue eyes, and orange beaks and feet.
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Social Animals:Ducks are social animals and thrive in groups, so it’s best to keep them in pairs or small flocks to ensure their well-being.
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Messy:Ducks can be messy and tend to poop frequently, so regular cleaning of their living areas is necessary.
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Need for Water:Ducks need access to a water source deep enough to dunk their heads into to keep their eyes and nostrils clean.
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Lifespan:With proper care, Pekin ducks can live for 8-12 years.
What is a white duck?
White ducks, also known as Pekin ducks, are a popular domestic waterfowl breed. Known for their docile temperament and meaty carcass, these ducks are a common sight on farms and homesteads across the world. In this blog post, we will explore the history, characteristics, care, and uses of white ducks.
What are the different types of white ducks?
Some popular white duck breeds include the Pekin, White Crested, and Aylesbury, each with its own unique characteristics and traits. Breeding and rearing white ducks require careful attention to their diet, living conditions, and health to ensure successful reproduction and healthy offspring.
Are white ducks common?
White ducks are among the most common types of ducks in North America and among the most common domesticated ducks in the world. Various species of ducks that are almost entirely white are seen around the world. From species that are found in captivity to ducks that live along coastal areas, these ducks come in all shapes and sizes.
Why are white ducks so popular?
White duck breeds are popular for their unique appearance and gentle nature, making them a favorite among duck enthusiasts. White duck breeds are known for their distinctive white plumage, orange bills, and orange legs, which set them apart from other duck breeds.
What are the most popular white duck breeds?
Another popular white duck breed is the White Crested duck, which is valued for its striking appearance and distinctive crest of feathers on its head. This breed is often raised for exhibition purposes due to its unique and eye-catching appearance. The Aylesbury duck is another popular white duck breed that originated in England.
What are white duck breeds used for?
White duck breeds have a variety of uses that make them valuable additions to small farms, homesteads, and backyard flocks. One of the primary uses of white duck breeds is egg production. Many white duck breeds are prolific layers capable of producing large, flavorful eggs that are prized by home cooks and bakers.