Description
🐤 Breed Origins
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Developed in the UK during the early 20th century by M.C. Gower-Williams and Oliver Drake (yes, really).
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Likely created by crossing Indian Runners with other light-class breeds.
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Named “Magpie” for their unique markings, which resemble the bird of the same name.
🎨 Appearance
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Color Pattern:
Classic Magpie ducks have white bodies with a colored cap on the head and a colored saddle (back). The rest is clean white. -
Common color varieties:
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Black and White (most common)
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Blue and White
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Less common: Dun and Chocolate
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Bill and legs:
Often orange, though coloring may vary with age and color variety. -
Size:
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Hens: ~5–6 lbs (2.3–2.7 kg)
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Drakes: ~6–7 lbs (2.7–3.2 kg)
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🥚 Egg Production
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Great layers:
Lay around 220–290 eggs per year. -
Egg color:
Typically white or light green/blue. -
Broodiness:
Some hens will go broody and make decent mothers.
🌿 Temperament and Behavior
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Calm and friendly:
Gentle and easy to manage, even around kids. -
Good foragers:
They’re happy free-ranging and help with pest control in gardens and orchards. -
Not particularly noisy:
Quieter than many other duck breeds, though hens will still “chat.”
✅ Pros
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Striking, attractive appearance
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Reliable egg production
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Dual-purpose: eggs + meat
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Calm and manageable personality
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Good for small farms or backyard settings
⚠️ Considerations
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Color pattern may fade over time:
As they age, the black markings can sometimes lighten or shift. -
May need protection from predators:
Like all domestic ducks, they don’t fly and rely on you for safety. -
Need clean, dry shelter:
They do fine in cold weather but appreciate a dry, draft-free place to rest.
🏡 Ideal For:
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Backyard homesteads
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Families looking for a low-maintenance duck
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Gardeners wanting a slug-and-snail patrol
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Those who want both beauty and utility in a flock
Summary
Magpie ducks are the perfect mix of beauty, productivity, and sweet nature. They’re a great choice for beginner duck keepers, egg lovers, or anyone who enjoys watching elegant birds cruise through the garden like they own the place.
Want help choosing between Magpies and another breed? Or setting up a coop space that suits their needs?