Introduction.—There are ten standard breeds of ducks raised in this country, as follows: The White Pekin, White Aylesbury, Colored Rouen, Black Cayuga, Colored Muscovy, White Muscovy, Gray Call, White Call, Black East Indian, and the Crested White. Of these breeds, the first six are considered profitable to raise; the two breeds of Calls and the Black East Indian are bantams, and are bred more for the showroom; the Crested White may be considered as almost purely ornamental.
Fig. 1.—White Pekin duck.
WHITE PEKIN DUCKS.
History.—Of all ducks for farm and practical purposes none stand higher in popular esteem than the White Pekin ([fig. 1]). It is valuable for raising on a large scale, and is the most easily raised of any. It is a very timid bird and must be handled quite carefully. It was imported from China in the early seventies, and has steadily grown in popularity since its introduction into this country.
Fig. 2.—Group of White Pekin ducks.