Magpie Ducks

[riverhillmicrofarm]

Does anyone raise Magpies, I have a drake and two ducks. I have questions regarding breeding.Thanks

 

[duckyfromoz]

There are a few members on here that keep magpies- maybe posting the actual questions you have will bring them out to answer.

 

[FenDruadin]

I've got magpies, though they are actually currently for sale. No idea whether I can answer them but... what are your questions?

 

[StevenW.]

They are still very rare in the US. Not many people own them anymore.

 

[goosedragon]

Except for their neat markings they have nothing to recommend them over other breeds, and I have been told that breeding them to maintain the ideal magpie pattern is a little hard.

 

[newbyduckmom]

I have a hen and a drake and have been doing a little reading on breeding since I am considering breeding them as well. Haven't gotten much response to posts on BYC on the subject.

 

[Oregon Blues]

I had a couple of Stanbridge Whites for a short while. That's a solid white Magpie. They are nice ducks.

Getting the perfect color pattern for show isn't guaranteed when you breed them, but that is true of other breeds that have requirements for their markings.

What is the question? Someone will be able to answer it.

 

[FenDruadin]

Quote:
Actually, magpies are strong egg layers and a small, calm bird that is nevertheless large enough to be multi-purpose. The markings are their most distinctive quality though, and they are hard to breed for--the only breeder I know who reliably turns out great markings is Holderread.

 

[DUCKGIRL89]

Quote:
Actually, magpies are strong egg layers and a small, calm bird that is nevertheless large enough to be multi-purpose. The markings are their most distinctive quality though, and they are hard to breed for--the only breeder I know who reliably turns out great markings is Holderread.

i thought you sold your magpies?....and dont worry... i will be right over

 

[FenDruadin]

lol! Yeah, I thought they were sold but the folks found a flock of anconas at the last minute and decided to go that route instead. I had a hard time choosing between anconas and magpies myself, so I understand the draw!

I have one very good application in on them at this time, but it is not a done deal. She has not decided for sure whether she wants them, but I've given her right of first refusal should I receive other good applications while she's still making up her mind.

I would be delighted to receive applications from BYCers... they're listed in the auction section.