In the United States, more than twenty million ducks are raised annually for meat production. Well, ducks are great animals that don’t require a lot of attention and are cheap to keep. They do not need expensive housing and can live in almost any climate. They can eat various foods, including small toads and snails. They even help fertilize the soil and kill insects and weeds. They are also better than chickens when it comes to health and lifespan. Ducks are not easily affected by bird diseases and tend to live longer. Therefore, there is no reason why people should not consider raising ducks for meat.
However, those who are veterans of raising ducks for meat know that Rouen, Pekin and Muscovy ducks are the best. These are actually three of the most popular duck breeds. They grow larger than the other breeds. Most of them also lay fewer eggs to build larger body structures. The Pekin, in particular, provides delicious white meat that is good for maintaining a healthy diet. Its feathers are white and it grows fast. It can grow to six to seven pounds in just seven weeks if it is fed properly. Of course, it does not fly. Therefore, it does not waste energy in flying. Therefore, it is capable of building a larger frame. However, you must protect it from foxes, dogs, and other predators.
Another good breed of duck is the Rouen. People who raise ducks for meat often refer to it as the larger mallard. These ducks were originally bred in France. Unlike Beijing ducks, Rouen ducks are good layers. In fact, they can lay up to one hundred and fifty duck eggs each year. However, breeders only choose Rouen ducks that lay fewer eggs; because these are the ones that produce the best meat. Additionally, breeders who raise ducks for meat also keep Barbary ducks.
Muscovy ducks are self-sufficient, uncomplicated ducks. They do not squawk but emit whistles. They are semi-wild and are excellent foragers when grown. They also fly strongly, but do not leave the house. Unlike Peking ducks, they grow rather slowly. However, Barbary ducks also provide good meat.
