Select high-production egg-laying breeds

Choose duck breeds bred specifically for egg production if eggs are your primary goal. Khaki Campbells are the gold standard, laying 280–340 eggs per year — matching or exceeding the best chicken breeds. Welsh Harlequins produce 240–330 eggs per year with a calmer temperament. Indian Runners lay 200–280 eggs per year and are excellent foragers. Hybrid layers like Golden 300s can exceed 300 eggs annually.

Why It Works

Duck eggs are larger than chicken eggs (roughly 30% heavier), with richer yolks and higher fat content that makes them prized for baking. High-production duck breeds have been selectively bred for consistent laying through most of the year, including winter months when chicken production typically drops. Ducks are also hardier than chickens and rarely suffer from common poultry diseases like Marek's.

Tips

• Khaki Campbells: 280–340 eggs/year, 4–4.5 lbs, active and sometimes nervous
• Welsh Harlequins: 240–330 eggs/year, 5–5.5 lbs, calm and docile
• Indian Runners: 200–280 eggs/year, 3.5–4.5 lbs, upright posture, excellent foragers
• Egg-laying breeds tend to be lightweight and more active — not ideal for meat production