PORTERFIELD EXOTICS

 

Magpie Duck

 

Magpie Duck Wisconsin

    Magpie ducks are a light duck which can lay 220 - 290 eggs per year.  They were developed in the early 1900's in Europe and imported to the U.S. in 1963.  They come in black & white, blue & white and the rare chocolate & white colors.  The ideal color pattern is the dark back and top of the head with the white neck and underside.  They are a slightly upright standing duck and it is believed they have Indian Runner Duck in their background.   Magpies got their name based on their color and pattern resemblance to the European Magpie.   They are a slightly high strung bird that although unable to take flight can get a few feet off the ground when startled.  The 2000 ALBC census found only 7 keepers of this breed with a total of only 126 breeding birds.  Although breed conservationists are bringing this breeds numbers back up they are still on the ALBC critical status list.  We are currently in the process of purchasing Magpie eggs from various breeders and hope to establish our own breeding flock.