White Crested Ducks
The
White Crested Duck is a white, medium weight duck with a feathered crest on the top of the head. The Crested Duck first appeared for show in Great Britain, though the true origin of the duck is uncertain. A crest can occur in all domestic breeds of ducks that originated from the
Wild Mallard due to a gene mutation. The only two crested breeds of ducks that are recognized by the
APA are the
White Crested Duck and the
Black Crested.
White Crested Ducks are bred primarily for exhibition and egg production. These
White Crested Ducks are pure white, and the will closely resemble the
Pekin Duck without the crest. The
White Crested Ducklings will also resemble the
Pekin Ducklings in that they will have soft yellow fur, and these will already have a small tuft of fuzzy hair growing on the back of their head.
Crested Ducks are difficult to breed due to genetic specifications and are not necessarily recommended for beginner breeders, but it's aesthetic appeal and quick growth make the White Crested Duck an excellent breed for exhibition, meat, or egg production.
White Crested Ducks make excellent pets as well because their demeanor and physical qualities are similar to the
Pekin, yet they have a unique characteristic to set them apart from other domestic ducks.
