Pekin Ducks
The
Pekin Duck is the most popular farm duck in the United States . In the entire world, the
Pekin Duck is more prominently raised than all other breeds of ducks combined. The Chinese were among the first cultures to domesticate
Mallard Ducks as a source of food, and the
Pekin was eventually developed through years of selective breeding. The first
Pekin ducks brought to the United States were found in their namesake town of
Peking, China, what is now known as Beijing. They were first brought to the United States in 1873, and the
Pekin Duck was admitted in to the newly formed
American Poultry Association in 1874
What makes the
Pekin duck so popular?
Pekins are an extremely hardy breed with a high level of fertility and excellent
hatchibility. As pets,
have a calm demeanor and relaxed temperament, providing great entertainment and socialization. They are the most common duck breed raised for pets. The Peking is a large and rapidly growing breed of duck, and with excellent feed conversion this makes them an ideal duck to raise for its meat. Not only a great meat bird, the Pekin is also an exceptional layer of large eggs. They are a relatively easy breed of duck to raise for pet, and are also an excellent food source for eggs and meat..
These Pekins are an excellent choice for a first time duck owner as well as the small farmer or self-sustaining restaurant owner wishing to raise ducks for their substantial meat and egg production.
This breed was imported from Peking, China into both England and the United States in 1873.
Of its many distinguishing characteristics, one is the strong yellow blood. Both legs and bill are deep orange color, and the plumage a kind of ferret-white, with a strong canary tinge, which becomes stronger still in the underfeather. The legs are set on far behind, which gives the Pekin an upright, penguin like stance.
Another distinguishing characteristic of Pekins is that they are non-sitters and prolific egg layers.
