welsh harlequin ducks . male/female???

[tammyj72]

I bought these three beautiful welsh harlequin ducks from an auction in may. I have tried to find out what sex they are but i have found contradicting info on the web. Please can anyone help to find out what sex they are?
thanks

 

[sourland]

I hope that I am wrong about this, but I don't think those are Welsh Harlequins. They look like Harlequin/muscovy crosses - ie, mules.

 

[tammyj72]

hi, thats ok. we were told harlequins at the auction and we are new to duck and chicken keeping, We just really need to know what sex they are?

 

[sourland]

If they are indeed Harlequin/muscovy crosses, it will not matter what sex they are. They will be sterile. If that is the case, it would be a shame - they are beautiful ducks.

 

[tammyj72]

Ok that is a shame.
can the beak colour still tell their sex even though they are crosses?

 

[akcountrygrrl]

I agree, those don't look like purebred Harlequins.

Listen to their voices. Hens will have a loud distinct quack and the males will have a hoarse sounding quieter quack almost a whisper. Also, the drakes will develop "sex feathers" - little curled feathers right in front of the tail.

 

[tammyj72]

right ok. so beak colour doesn't matter?
next time i think i might go to a breeder then i might know what i am getting, will make things easier.

 

[tammyj72]

What would be the best pair of ducks to buy for breeding? they would need to be able to get on with other ducks and chickens.

 

[akcountrygrrl]

What is your goal for breeding? Eggs? Meat? Show? Just because?

Harlequins, Khaki Campbells, and Runner ducks are all good egg producers.

Pekins, Muscovies, and Rouens are great meat birds.

For showing you would want to find a breed of duck you like, find a show breeder with proven quality lines, and go from there.

If you want breeders just to breed ducklings, then find a breed you like and go from there.

 

[tammyj72]

Ok thanks for that.
Will have a look around.
could never eat a family pet !!!!

Can you eat the eggs from the harlequin x muscovy?