When I brought home my first pair of Pekin ducks, I thought I’d just get a few eggs and some homestead charm. What I didn’t expect? Their big personalities, social nature, and steady productivity.
Pekins aren’t just poultry—they’re companions. Once you meet one, you’ll understand why this white, plump, and friendly breed has become a top choice for backyard flocks and commercial farms alike.
A Quick History of Pekin Ducks
Ancient origins in China and arrival in America
Pekin ducks trace back to ancient China, where they were prized for both meat and eggs. By the 19th century, a shipment of large, white ducks traveled from China to the United States, where they were selectively bred into the classic American-Pekin we know today.
Distinction between American, German, and other Pekin varieties
Over time, different strains like the German-Pekin, Crested-Pekin, and Jumbo-White-Pekin developed. While all belong to the same duck lineage (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus), they vary in stance, size, and sometimes feather traits. American Pekins are known for their rounded, upright bodies and calm nature.
How Big Do Pekin Ducks Get?
Average weight and size
Adult drakes (males) typically weigh 9–11 pounds, while hens (females) weigh closer to 8–9 pounds. They stand about 20 inches tall, with deep, boat-shaped bodies.
Jumbo-Pekin vs. Standard Pekin
The Jumbo-Pekin is a selectively bred variety that can weigh up to 13–15 pounds, making it a favorite in the poultry industry for meat production.
Male vs. Female differences
A quick comparison: Drakes have a curled tail feather and quieter quacks, while hens have louder, distinct quacks. This makes sexing surprisingly easy once you’ve spent some time with them.
Personality and Temperament
Pekins are some of the most friendly, docile, and sociable ducks you can raise. Unlike nervous breeds, they’re calm around people and can even be affectionate pets. If raised from ducklings, they’ll often follow you around the yard like toddlers in feathered suits.
They’re also flightless, which means no surprise visits from your duck flock to the neighbor’s swimming pool. Their gregarious nature makes them thrive best in small groups.
Egg Laying and Reproduction Facts
Annual egg production
A healthy Pekin hen lays around 240 eggs per year, with each egg weighing about 3 ounces.
Laying cycle and clutch size
A clutch can range from 6–12 eggs, though hens are typically non-sitters and not very broody. For hatching, most farmers rely on incubators.
Incubation days and tips
Eggs take about 28 days of incubation to hatch. Hatching success depends on humidity, temperature, and turning the eggs daily if using an incubator.
Food and Nutrition for Growing Ducks
Pekins grow fast—sometimes reaching full size in just 7–8 weeks. Their diet should include:
- High-protein starter feed as ducklings
- Grains like corn, wheat, and barley
- Fresh greens and safe garden vegetables
- Clean fresh water for both drinking and dabbling
Avoid processed foods or too much corn, which can lead to weight issues.
Housing and Care for Pekins
Good housing is simple: keep them safe, clean, and dry. A small duck house with straw bedding, welded-wire fencing against predators, and access to fresh water is plenty.
Tips:
- Elevate housing floors to prevent mud buildup.
- Provide shade in the summer and insulation in winter.
- Add ramps for easier access since they’re heavy-bodied ducks.
The Value of Pekins in Poultry Farming
Meat yield and commercial demand
Pekins are the world’s most popular table-bird, accounting for nearly 90% of duck meat in the U.S. The meat is tender, mild, and flavorful.
Costs and selling price
Young Pekin ducklings are often sold for $5–$10 each, while adult breeding pairs may cost more. On local farms, Pekin meat fetches a premium thanks to consistent high-yield efficiency.
Distinction from Peking Duck
Don’t confuse the breed with Peking Duck, the famous Chinese roasted dish. The meal traditionally uses specific management of ducks in Beijing, while Pekin ducks are the actual breed.
Fun Facts About Pekin Ducks
- They quack differently based on sex: hens quack loudly, drakes barely grunt.
- Their bright orange bills and legs make them easy to spot in the yard.
- Despite their size, they waddle with a charming penguin-like stance.
- The average lifespan is 8–12 years with good care, though some live even longer.
For more duck trivia and breed guides, check out the Duck Category.
Final Takeaway
Whether you’re raising ducks for fun, food, or farm efficiency, Pekins are a top choice. They’re hardy, lovable, productive, and versatile, making them just as perfect for backyard keepers as they are for large-scale poultry farms. To me, they’ve been more than livestock—they’re waddling, quacking companions who bring routine, joy, and a bit of comedy to my mornings.
FAQs
How do I tell the difference between a male and female Pekin?
Drakes have a curled tail feather and softer quacks, while hens are noisier and lack the tail curl.
How many eggs do Pekins lay per day?
On average, hens lay about 4–5 eggs per week, or close to 1 egg every other day.
How long do Pekins live?
With proper care, they live 8–12 years, making them long-term companions.
Are Pekin ducks good pets?
Yes. They’re friendly, quiet compared to chickens, and make great flock companions.
How much space do they need?
Allow at least 10 square feet per duck in an outdoor enclosure, plus access to clean water for swimming.
References & Further Reading
- https://www.backyardclucks.com/duck-housing-basics
- https://www.backyardclucks.com/duck-breeds-101
- https://www.poultryworld.net/
- https://www.metzerfarms.com/
- https://www.backyardchickens.com/
- https://extension.psu.edu/raising-ducks
- https://www.thepoultrysite.com/
Hello! I’m Ibrahim, the owner and writer of this blog. I run a chicken farm with 160 chickens, and I’ve gained a lot of knowledge about raising and caring for them. Now, I want to share my insights and experiences with you to help you in chicken keeping.