can you tell the sex of muscovy ducklings?

I justgot 6 muscovy, though after I ordered them I found out they will most likely not breed so they will have to all be for the table, my first meat birds. They are so cute and tiny, 3 have black head spots, 3 don't, is it a fluke or are the sex linked?

This what the hatchery states on the website  :


To enhance the natural advantages of the Muscovy, there has been a lot of genetic research and selection done in France. As a result, strides have been made in increasing feed efficiency and improving growth rates. The new hybrid Muscovy ducklings look like the original Muscovy, but they eat somewhat more per bird per day, and grow more rapidly. For the traditional roasting duck with that fine ducky flavour, you need to raise them at least 14 weeks. The feed efficiency will drop as the birds get older and heavier, but the improved meat quality and better dressing percentage will make it worthwhile.


I emailed them and all they could say is that a few people have stated that they were trying to keep them. I really want to keep a pair even more so if our animal by law changes to allow chickens outside, thatway I can build a 2 story coop that they can live on the bottom:)

This is the email I sent them with there reply:

unfortunately I cannot say with absolute certainty but I have a feeling in all our small lot purchases that somone is trying it. Sorry
----- Original Message -----

Hi, I'm interested in your muscovy and was wondering about the hybrid. Will they be healthy enough to keep as long term livestock reproducing the next year?, I do plan on eating them but having a small flock is also my intention.

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I guess I'll have to get a trio in the spring then, this sucks because they are so cute.