Pekin
The most popular market duck in America is the Pekin. It is
bred in one variety, white; and a creamy white plumage and orange shanks and
toes are desired. The bill should rich yellow in color, and black in the bill
or bean is a serious defect. Pekin ducks should weigh not less than, adult
drake, 9 lbs.; young drake, 8 lbs.; adult duck, 8 lbs.; young duck, 7 lbs. The
correct shape is of a long, broad, deep and full breasted type, to carry an
abundance of meat. The Pekin breed is of Chinese origin, a country in which
duck raising is extensively followed, especially in some districts. The first
Pekins were imported to the United States about 1873.
Reference:
Platt, Frank L. 1925. All Breeds of Poultry, Origin:
History: Description, Mating and Characteristics. American Poultry Journal.
Chicago.
Photographs:
Beth Wytiaz, New Martinsville, WV
