542 T lie Illustrated Book of Poultry , . 
This duck is valuable in many respects. It is immense in frame, and may probably be 
ultimately bred to great weight (we have known a drake weigh 1 1 lbs.) ; but as a rule it does not 
seem predisposed to excessive fat, and immense-looking specimens weigh perhaps only 12 to 
15 lbs. per pair. On the other hand, the flesh is correspondingly delicate and free from grossness. 
The breed lays best of all the ducks — of this there is little doubt — and has the further peculiarity 
of very seldom wishing to sit : many ducks never do. It is hardy, and grows fast ; and altogether 
Pekin Ducks. 
must be pronounced a most valuable addition to our poultry-yards. It will especially suit 
those persons who admire a white duck, but cannot face the perpetual worry and difficulty 
of the Aylesbury’s white bill. On the water the Pekin Duck is particularly graceful and 
ornamental. 
THE MUSCOVY OR MUSK DUCK seems to be a comparatively distinct species, as the 
progeny of a cross between them and the more common kinds is found decidedly unfertile, at least 
when bred inter se, though we believe they have been bred with the parent strains. The distinct 
habitat of the wild species is also in favour of this view, for whilst the Mallard extends through the 
