Duclair Duck
Scientific Name
Anas platyrhynchos domesticus
Alternative Names
Normandy Duck, French Duclair
Measurements:
| Feature | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Up to 3.0 kg (6.6 lb) | Up to 2.5 kg (5.5 lb) |
Status
Least Concern. Although traditional farming declined in France during the 20th century, conservation efforts are underway through the Parc naturel régional des Boucles de la Seine normande and the Club pour la Sauvegarde des Races avicoles Normandes to restore and promote the breed.
Average Life Span
Around 12 years in the wild or in human care.
Breed History
The Duclair duck originated in Normandy, France, and takes its name from the town of Duclair. The breed arose from interbreeding between domestic ducks and migratory wild ducks and became common during the 18th century. Ducks were traditionally raised in large numbers between Duclair and Anneville-Ambourville, sold at local markets, and distributed to Paris and Rouen.
Official standards for the breed were established on November 23, 1923. Once a symbol of the town of Duclair, local farming declined, and by 2006, the last original farm had ceased production. Conservation programs were later established to revive the breed. A farmer in New York also attempted to recreate it in the early 2000s by crossing a wild mallard with a French Pekin.
Identification
A medium-sized duck with black or brown plumage, a white bib, and a brown or green head. The outer two primaries on each wing are white, like the bib. Males are slightly larger with emerald-green heads and blue-green wings. Eyes are bluish green or green. Calm in temperament, they resemble the Swedish Blue in body shape.
Purpose
A traditional dual-purpose duck bred for both eggs and meat. The meat is known for its “gamy” flavor and is famously used in pressed duck dishes.
Breed Eggs
Eggshells are blue-green in color, averaging 70 g (2.5 oz) in weight. Females lay around 60–100 eggs annually.
Temperament & Behavior
Duclair ducks are calm, adaptable, and ideal for beginners. They feed both on land and in water, dabbling in shallow areas by tipping forward to reach food. Their excellent vision allows them to see both above and below water, aided by a protective third eyelid.
Genetic Profile
Descended from domestic and wild mallards, maintaining characteristics close to wild ancestors. Two main color varieties exist—black and blue—with a distinctive white bib and wing markings.