Silver Appleyard Ducklings

Silver Appleyard Ducks

The Silver Appleyard is one of the more colorful breeds of larger ducks.

One of the defining characteristics of the Silver Appleyard ducks is their slower maturation process. Many pet owners and breeders alike will favor the Silver Appleyard ducklings to observe and enjoy its drawn out development process. Unlike other waterfowl which mature in a matter of weeks, the Silver Appleyard will take a few months to reach full size and plumage coloration.

These ducks are primarily silver and white, having a black stripe on the top of their heads, black tails, and black growth under their exterior plumage. Hens and drakes have differing coloration in that the drakes' heads are greenish, similar to the Mallard and Rouen. Also, drakes generally have a darker chest and back, with molted brown and black spots covering back and chests.

Silver Appleyards are commonly raised as pets, but are also shown in exhibitions, used for decoration, and farmed for eggs. Also, they are considered gourmet roasting ducks as their meat is lean and flavorful.

When breeding Silver Appleyards ducks you should select active, strong-legged, robust birds. Look for hens with a good record of egg production which often carry the strongest ducklings. Also, the size of the birds you select to breed is important. Often times a Silver Appleyard duck will be undersized and unsuitable for breeding. Thus you should select the larger, well-muscled birds. However, a bird that is too large will have trouble mating, egg laying, and finding food. Many breeders are always searching for the perfectly balance of size, strength, and adaptability to select the perfect pair to produce perfect Silver Appleyard Ducklings.

A recent census conducted by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy found that only a small number of breeding operations were carrying Silver Appleyards. Thus, more breeders are needed to preserve this exquisite species.