Detailed profile of this breed: origin, year of creation, recognised varieties and official approvals.
Breed Summary
The Swedish Duck is a hardy, dual-purpose breed developed in Sweden. It is valued for reliable egg production and a calm, easy-going temperament suitable for beginners and backyards. Typical adult weights: drake 3.0–3.6 kg; duck 2.5–3.0 kg. Annual egg production: approximately 170–210 eggs, with eggs weighing about 62–72 g. First lay around 5–6 months of age; expected lifespan 5–8 years. Plumage varies by variety, with Blue Swedish (blue-gray plumage with a contrasting bib) being the best-known color variant, while white and other colorings exist.
Detailed Origin
Originating in Sweden in the 19th century, the Swedish Duck was developed by selective breeding among native mallards and local stock to improve egg production, hardiness, and adaptability. It spread to North America and other regions in the late 19th to early 20th centuries and is maintained by poultry clubs and hobbyists in Nordic and North American regions.
Detailed Description
Morphology: medium-sized duck with a rounded body and a relatively short neck. Plumage varies by variety; Blue Swedish typically shows slate-blue plumage with a white bib, while other color varieties exist. Beak and legs are orange. Females are slightly smaller than males. Eggs are white to cream and laid mainly in warmer months; incubation period is about 28 days. The breed is well-suited for free-range or backyard systems and is known for a calm, hardy disposition.