FARM ANIMALS 



375 



FIG. 225. Pekin Ducks. 



ing young ducks for the market. If ducks can be mar- 

 keted when they are 10 to 12 weeks old, there is much 

 profit in the business. If sufficient water is furnished 

 them for drinking, they 

 thrive well without 

 swimming pools. 



Breeds of Ducks. - 

 Pekin. This is the 

 most popular and prof- 

 itable of all the breeds. 

 It is pure white, hardy, 

 and an excellent layer. 

 Ducks ten weeks old 

 may be fattened to five 

 pounds weight for mar- 

 keting. The shape is 

 rather upright, the rear of the body flat, the back straight, 

 and the breast very full. These ducks originated in 

 China, but have been wonderfully developed in America. 

 Aylesbury. This heavier but not so prolific breed 



is preferred by some to the 

 Pekin. It was developed 

 in England. 



The Rouen was also de- 

 veloped in England, though 

 it originated in France. 

 It compares favorably with 

 the Pekin and produces 

 fine winter roasters. The color is nearly the same as 

 the wild Mallard. 



The Black Cayuga is an American bird. It has 

 characteristics similar to the Pekin, only smaller, but 

 the black color lowers its marketing value. 



FIG. 226. Rouen Ducks. 



