White ducks are a common sight in parks, farms, and waterways. Many people observe these birds and wonder about their specific identity. This article explores various white duck breeds and the biological factors contributing to their appearance.
Common White Duck Types
The Pekin duck is one of the most recognized white duck breeds, characterized by its large size and an upright, somewhat boat-like posture. Originating from China, Pekins typically have a bright orange bill and orange shanks and feet. They have a deep, broad body and a slightly flattened head. The Aylesbury duck is also large but possesses a horizontal body carriage, differing from the Pekin’s upright stance. Aylesburys are known for their distinctive pinkish-white bill and white shanks and feet.
The White Call duck is smaller, with a compact and rounded body shape, often resembling a miniature version of larger ducks. These ducks have a short, broad bill and a lively disposition. White Calls are frequently kept for ornamental purposes and typically have an orange bill. The White Crested duck features a prominent, spherical crest of feathers on its head, a result of a genetic mutation. This crest gives them a distinctive silhouette, and their bill color can vary, often being orange or yellowish-orange.
The Genetics Behind White Plumage
The white plumage in many domestic duck breeds is primarily a result of selective breeding over centuries. Breeders intentionally chose ducks with white feathers for reproduction, aiming to produce white down and feathers for various commercial uses. This selection favored genetic traits that suppressed pigment production. White feathers are also advantageous in commercial settings because they do not leave dark pinfeathers that can discolor the carcass during processing.
The absence of color in these ducks is often due to leucism, a genetic condition that reduces or eliminates all types of pigment in the feathers. Leucistic animals, including ducks, typically have normal eye color, which helps distinguish them from true albinos. Albinism, a different genetic condition, involves a complete lack of melanin production and results in red or pink eyes. Most white domestic ducks are leucistic, meaning their white appearance is a natural genetic variation amplified through human selection.
Distinguishing White Duck Breeds
Identifying specific white duck breeds relies on observing physical characteristics beyond their shared white plumage. Bill color serves as a primary distinguishing feature; Pekin ducks consistently display a bright orange bill, while Aylesburys are recognized by their unique pinkish-white bill. Body posture also offers a reliable clue, with Pekins typically holding a more upright posture compared to the horizontal carriage of the Aylesbury. These differences help differentiate the two larger white breeds.
For smaller white ducks, the presence of a crest is the most immediate indicator of a White Crested duck. White Call ducks, while also small, lack this feathered crest and have a more compact, rounded body and a shorter bill. Observing these specific features—bill color, body posture, and the presence or absence of a crest—allows for more accurate identification among the various white duck breeds.