hybrid muscovy?

[dntd]

Ok I ordered 6 muscovy ducklings, I read the hatcheries discription just now and am a bit worried. They are a new hybrid and I'm worried they won't be as healthy as an adult if I chose to keep a pair. this is the discription:
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.

 

[chickboss]

I would contact the hatchery and find out if they remain healthy after reaching they're full wieght. It would be a shame, if you planned on breeding to have birds that were like some of the Cornish Crosses you hear about.

 

[sourland]

If the hybrid muscovies? are a muscovy/mallard derived cross, they are mules and will not be able to reproduce. Sounds as if they are a cross intended for eating. Everything in the hatchery description seems to give that impression. (They are a very hardy bird, but they can not reproduce.)

 

[dntd]

I really wanted a small flock but as they were cheap I can always try again next year with local birds, they only wanted 3.65 each after feeding them is still come cheaper then chicken in the stores.