Ducks breed profile
Pekin
Also known as: American Pekin
- Commercial meat
- China (commercialized in U.S.)
- medium
- Temperament: calm
Pekin is the U.S. commercial meat duck standard — fast growth, accepts confinement, and dominates restaurant duck supply. Moderate egg production as a secondary product.
Production & size
Mature size and output.
Female weight
7–9 lbs
Male weight
8–11 lbs
Eggs/year
150
Egg color
white
Reproductive traits
Gestation
28 days
Seasonality
year round
Maternal
fair
Health & climate
Parasite resistance
good
Heat tolerance
good
Cold hardiness
good
Humidity tolerance
good
Common health concerns
- Wet bedding from water requirements
- Loud quacking — siting consideration
Management requirements
Experience
beginner friendly
Housing
basic shelter
Fencing
standard
Feed system
grain supplement
Market access
Commercial market
excellent
Direct-market appeal
good
Primary purposes