Choose efficient meat breeds for fast growth

Select breeds that grow quickly and develop a large, meaty carcass if raising ducks for meat. The White Pekin is the dominant commercial meat duck worldwide, reaching 7–8 pounds in just 7–8 weeks with excellent feed conversion. Muscovy ducks produce leaner, more flavorful meat but take 12–16 weeks to reach market weight (drakes reach 10–12 lbs, hens 6–7 lbs). Rouen ducks resemble large Mallards and reach 8–10 lbs but grow slowly over 5–6 months.

Why It Works

Pekins have been bred for centuries for rapid, efficient growth. Their white feathers produce a cleaner-looking carcass than dark-feathered breeds (no dark pin feather marks). Muscovies are technically a separate species from domestic ducks and have a unique breast-heavy build with meat often compared to veal or lean beef. The choice depends on whether you prioritize speed (Pekin) or flavor (Muscovy).

Tips

• Pekin: 7–8 lbs in 7–8 weeks, moderate egg laying (125–225/year), very noisy females
• Muscovy: 10–12 lbs (drake) in 12–16 weeks, nearly silent, can fly, excellent mothers
• Rouen: 8–10 lbs in 5–6 months, beautiful plumage, calm temperament, 35–125 eggs/year
• Meat breeds generally lay fewer eggs than dedicated layer breeds