White Pekin Duck

White Pekin Ducks, which belong to the Heavy Weight Duck Class, are the most popular of all ducks. In the United States, White Pekins are raised more than all of the other breeds of ducks combined. They have become very popular because of a combination of traits: hardiness, good fertility, excellent hatchability, calm temperament, large size, superior growth rate, excellent feed conversion, yellow skin and white plumage.

Physical Characteristics

• Plumage: Pure white feathers with bright yellow bills and orange legs.

• Size: Mature hens weigh approximately 9 pounds, while drakes reach about 10 pounds.

• Body Structure: Broad, deep, and full-breasted, allowing for an abundance of meat.

Meat Production

• Growth Rate: Pekin ducks are known for their rapid growth, reaching market weight in about 6 to 8 weeks.

• Meat Quality: The meat is tender, fine-fibered, and has a mild flavor, making it a favorite in culinary dishes.

• Carcass Characteristics: Pekin ducks have a high breast meat yield, contributing to their popularity in commercial meat production.

White Pekin Duck Egg Production

• Laying Capacity: Pekin hens typically lay between 140 to 175 white-shelled eggs annually.

• Egg Size: The eggs are large to extra-large, with some ducks laying up to 300 eggs per year under optimal conditions .

• Brooding Behavior: While capable of laying numerous eggs, Pekin hens are not known for their brooding instincts and may require assistance in hatching.