If you are considering raising ducks breeds for laying eggs, certain consideration must be put to mind first. Like what breeds are most suitable for egg production and which ones lay the most the most eggs.
Most poultry farmers have limited knowledge when it comes to duck breeds, knowing only a few of them; yet, there are so many breeds out there. Just like chickens, there are breeds of ducks that are showy;others are raised purposefully for meat production, while others are solely for the production of eggs.
There are four species of poultry that are known for egg production, and are therefore raised for this reason. Ducks are among this species and their egg-producing abilities are excellent. If raising ducks for egg production is something that interests you, but has no clue as to where to begin. Here are some of the top duck breeds to consider.
6 Recommended Duck Breeds for Laying Eggs
1. Buff Duck
Also referred to as Orpington duck, these duck breed are among the smallest and they weigh up to 8 pounds. The Buff Duck was first introduced in England by a farmer named William Cook and in developing the buff duck; he used various breeds namely; the Cayuga, Rouen, Aylesbury, and the Indian Runner. They are known to serve two purpose and they can be raised for egg production or solely for meat production. Buffs are not the best egg producers however, they can rack up to 200 eggs in a single year, but for a breeder who is looking for a duck breed that is attractive and serves a dual purpose, then this is the right breed for you.
2. Runner Duck
The Runner duck is one of the oldest duck breeds for laying eggs. It is often referred to as the Indian Runner, and is known to be highly productive in terms of egg production. The Runner duck produces eggs annually to as high as 300 eggs. The Runner are insatiable foragers, the Chinese in historic times used these birds in their Chinese rice patties for gathering snails, small reptiles, weeds, and insects. Therefore, these breed will come in handy around your farm in picking out these small animals. They are also very active birds and they foragea larger area of space, so keep in mind when breeding the Runner be sure to provide them with plenty of space.
3. Campbell Duck
Due to the tan colour of these ducks, they are commonly referred to as Khaki Campbell, and are considered the best duck breeds for laying eggs. In a single year, the Campbell duck can produce as many as 340 eggs. They are known endure various climates which can be an advantage for many breeders out there living in different parts of the world, Campbell ducks are very active foragers as well. In addition to this, there are a few things you need to know if you are the type of breeder considering to raise these ducks. The Campbell duck require an adequate diet, an environment that is peaceful, as well as adequate grazing space. Also, keep in mind that for maximum production, you need to keep the flock to a minimum of 200 birds.
4. Magpie Duck
The Magpie comes in a variety of colours, often black and white while other ducks are blue and white in colour. In terms of egg production, they produce about 300 in a single year, so they are worth considering as a worthy breed for egg production. Their eggs are rather peculiar as they have striking colours ranging from white and cream to green and blue. If you find this interesting, then this is the right breed for you. Furthermore, compared to other breeds of ducks, the Magpie duck much quieter making them the ideal birds for your homestead or farm if you are the type of person who detests quacking sounds duck breeds usually make.
5. Welsh Harlequin
Among all the duck breeds, the Welsh Harlequin is probably the most threatened and is listed as critically endangered species. This lightweight breed is a native of Wales also known for its exceptional ability in egg production. In a single year, the Welsh Harlequin can guarantee you a total of 300 eggs if not more than that number. These ducks have a reputation due to their reasonableness around the farm, as they can help you in raising ducklings. The Welsh Harlequin is also known to be a good breed for meat production.
6. Ancona Duck
The Ancona duck is pretty much like the Buff breed. They are medium sized and are an excellent choice for a dual-purpose breed. Their numbers in terms of egg production is not that high, and their total in a single year comes to about 240 eggs and their meat is also of high quality and sweet. A native of England, the Ancona, is a very attractive breed just like the Magpie and comes in many colours as well as producing eggs with different colours. Just like most of the breeds mentioned in this list, the Ancona is very peaceful and they need to be provided with enough space for foraging.
Conclusion
When considering raising duck breeds for laying eggs, you should find the provided list very useful when making choices. Most of these breeds lay a lot of eggs annually provided that you offer them the conducive environment to do so. This includes enough spacing, proper diet, and an adequate population. As mentioned, as a breeder you should be on the lookout for the most productive breed for your egg production. While a certain breed can be recommended, it all depends on your preferences. The Campbell is the most suitable seeing as it produces a good number of eggs; also it has the advantage of adapting to various climates when compared to the other breeds. So, as a breeder, which is the best duck breed that will suit your preferences? Whatever it is you can be guaranteed exceptional results in your production by all these egg-producing breeds.
Read my other articles on Duck pond ideas and DIY Duck house.
