Reviews by ejay

Not going to much on egg production because I have the following:

3 Mature Drakes
4 Growing Ducklings (various females I believe)
and 6 extras in the incubator

So hoping for more on the way!

Yes I love this breed!

I knew from the moment I noticed how quick and easy they grew, nothing grows as fast and fantastic as a Stanbridge (of all the breeds I have known and kept) and better still, they have a small appetite and just seem to keep thriving. Straight outdoors at 2 weeks (with option to go under heat lamp-indoor enclosure) and they do fantastic.

Busy and active ducks, put my "Busy" Silver Appleyards to shame. Almost ornamental in shape and type, a long and regal white duck looks great on good green grass about the garden - alternative to standard Pekin or Indian Runner.

I find the history interesting and am excited to try and aid in the publicity and add to the numbers of this rare breed.




This is Barby, he hurt his leg when he was a duckling and during the "rehabilitation" he became EXCEPTIONALLY tame
He hangs out with his two brothers with my calm and mellow West of England Geese.

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General:

I have been keeping and breeding (Large) Silver Appleyards for quite some time now (I am no expert however!) A great traditional British Breed.
They are truly a dual purpose breed, having great egg laying abilities and well fed Drakes making a 9lbs weight (7-8 table) for good eating. They are handsome to look at and big colourful birds, breed standard flocks are lovely to look at and not too closely coloured to the Mallard, a nice distinct trait. (left)

Health:

Our's here are hardy and no cold weather seems to phase them which is another bonus in that they require little bedding in their Duck Houses. They do prefer good shade, and not too must pestering or human attention in the heat of summer. If you are breeding it would be a good idea to keep and eye on leg size and weight, some Birds are small boned and do not carry well (these ones should be culled or not bred from). Extra large well boned birds make great cuddly pals and true to the standard.

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Ducklings and Personality:


The Ducks make good mothers, they are particularly protective compared to some breeds, be prepared to be bitten if you get too close! On another note, I have even had Daddy Drakes sit patiently on eggs whilst Mother was out eating.

Ducklings brooded or hand reared are very independent, I think this to be the nature of the breed. Ducklings require patience and attention to become tame, this is easier when you start young, attention little and often. Give them time and they will not become flighty, we like to call friendly ones"Duck Slippers" when older (constantly tripping over cuddly Females and goofy Males).

Females are extra loud this is something you might want to think about if you have neighbors. They will call across 3 fields if they catch the sight of you, or indeed just as loud if you were to be right next to them. I have no idea why this is, and have never met a quiet Appleyard. Drakes make sounds of the usual sort.