Detailed profile of this breed: origin, year of creation, recognised varieties and official approvals.
Breed Summary
The German Pekin Duck is not widely recognized as a distinct breed; it generally refers to Pekin ducks raised in Germany for meat production. Key traits include a large, heavy-bodied bird; pure white plumage; orange bill and legs; a calm and docile temperament; and rapid growth. Typical weights are approximately: drakes 4.0–5.5 kg; hens 3.5–4.5 kg. Under good management, market weight is reached in about 7–9 weeks. Reproductive performance is moderate for a meat-type duck: around 120–180 eggs per year, with average egg weight of 70–85 g. In captivity, the expected lifespan is around 5–8 years with proper care. Practical management requires clean water for swimming, dry litter, adequate ventilation, and winter shelter.
Detailed Origin
Origin and identity: The Pekin duck originates from the Shandong province of China and is one of the most widely raised meat ducks worldwide. The German term 'German Pekin' refers to Pekin stock bred and raised within Germany as part of commercial meat production. The first documented imports of Pekin ducks into Europe occurred in the 19th century, with Germany subsequently integrating Pekin stock into its poultry industries. There is no formally recognized separate German Pekin breed; rather, German breeders have selected lines within the Pekin type to optimise meat yield and carcass quality.
Detailed Description
Appearance and conformation: large, robust body with a compact, deep chest; pure white plumage; orange beak and legs; broad back and relatively short neck. Growth, production, and efficiency: hatchlings reach market weight in roughly 7–9 weeks under good nutrition; adult drakes typically weigh 4.0–5.5 kg and hens 3.5–4.5 kg. Reproductive performance: duck hens lay about 120–180 eggs per year, with eggs weighing around 70–85 g. Behaviour and husbandry: generally calm, friendly birds that do well in confinement or with free-range access provided adequate space, clean water for swimming, and dry litter. Dietary notes: high-energy, grain-based rations support rapid growth; maintain proper ventilation and biosecurity to reduce disease risk.