subject: Different Types of Ducks - Decide on Which To Get If You Plan To Raise Ducks [print this page] Different Types of Ducks - Decide on Which To Get If You Plan To Raise Ducks
There are many different types of ducks and each come with their own unique characteristics. Admittedly, it can be confusing to decide which to get if you plan on raising some. However, by knowing the reason why you want keep ducks in the first place, the answer will eventually come to you.
The Pekin Duck, also referred to as Long Island duck, is popularly raised for egg and meat production. Derived from the Mallard, it is a domesticated duck that was bred in China. The color of its feathers can be white can sometimes possess a yellowish tinge. They are also more upright and have a bright orange beak. One of the most popular commercial duck breed, the Pekin duck can produce up to 200 eggs per year. The Pekin duck is known for being a fickle creature when it comes to laying eggs. They usually dump their eggs in a safe place but leave them after some time and sits on another duck's eggs.
Indian Runners were named thus because they run rather than waddle. The females can produce about 150 to 200 eggs per year which makes them a favorite among farmers. Unlike the other different types of ducks, Indian Runners stand erect, just like a penguin. They are known for laying eggs anywhere and can even drop them while running. As a duck-keeper, you have to make sure that they are put in duck house so that their eggs are kept safe from both impact and predators.
The Khaki Campbell is one of the greatest egg producers among the different types of ducks out there. They come in three different colors, namely: khaki, dark and white. Their heads have a different color and can range from charcoal grey to dark green. These ducks can lay up to 300 eggs per year. Historically, these ducks were developed by a Mrs. Adele Campbell who crossed about four different types of ducks to produce the buff colored Khaki Campbell.
What sets the Mandarin duck apart from the other different types of ducks is its beauty. These ducks possess a red bill, a large white crescent above the eye, an auburn colored face and purple breasts with two white lines. Mandarin ducks are usually kept for ornamental reasons.
