Pekin or Cayuga?

[mightymax]

He might, or he might not. Unfortunately, there is no 'yes' or 'no' answer to your question. It really does depend on the individual personalities involved. Theoretically speaking, the ducks would be no match for the gander. In theory. But that's the problem with theories, they rely on ideas that are generally assumed to be true, but aren't necessarily so. You could end up having the most gentle, laid back gander in the world, or...you might wind up with one that thinks he's Godzilla. You just never know. Like I've mentioned before, all of my animals free range together without major issues, but I could just be lucky in that regard. Either way, I wish you the best with whatever decision you make!

 

[Horsebackrules]

I think I'll end up getting a gander just because I love geese. Any docile types you would suggest?

 

[mightymax]

The only breed I've actually owned are American Buffs. I've known people with Sebbies who tell me that they're docile and calm as well, along with Pilgrims and Pomeranians. I've heard that African and Chinese geese are somewhat rowdy and pretty loud, although my Buffs have been known to break some sound barriers themselves...lol !!! Again, I can't emphasize strong enough, how important individual personalities are when discussing things like temperament. You can arm yourself with every conceivable defense, and still end up with an obnoxious biter on your hands. With animals, as with people, you can't always stack the deck in your favor. Sometimes you just get what you get...

 

[Horsebackrules]

Well I guess I'll see what happens...not sure if I'm getting the ducks yet anyways. Just have to see what city council decides...the earliest they can bring it up again is 3 weeks from now

They'll be raised together and handled a lot so I hope I'll be good to go. I think they're shipped when they are a day or two old so that might help. I still need to do some more research on geese anyways...I've already done a ton of research on ducks though!

 

[Horsebackrules]

I've now added two more breeds to the list of possible ducks

I need to stop changing my mind lol. I'm now considering a snowy mallard and black east indie. I know black east indies are basically smaller Cayugas. I thought flying might be a problem but after looking at videos I realized how easy it is to clip wings. I really love the snowy mallard color. I just don't want them to feel the urge to migrate. Smaller ducks also means less poop! But to me nothing really matters except companionship and, to be perfectly honest, looks. I know its sad but I don't want an ugly duck.

Update: Would a Welsh Harlequin be better and a Cayuga be better? They have about the same coloring and can't fly. But I've heard people say they are super loud and people say that they are on the quieter side. (add noise to the list of things I care about!)

 

[SouthernPride]

If you are concerned about the noise then males, no matter the breed, are what you want. Muscovies are the quietest and in my opinion, the most personable. Geese, no matter male or female, are noisy. One thing you did not mention, are you planninig on these being house ducks/geese? If so, then I would suggest just getting one. That will be your best chance at have it be your best friend. He/she will think they are human if imprinting goes well.

I received another muscovy duckling, could not have been more than 4-5 days old. It HATES me. Does not want to have anything to do with humans. I tried everything, nothing worked. I think that is very odd.

 

[mightymax]

Haven't had a Welsh, although I think they're beautiful birds, so I can't help you there. I did have two Cayugas, both males, and they were pretty much mute. In my opinion, the smaller the duck, the more obnoxious the sound. Don't know why, maybe it's just me, but when several call ducks get together the volume seems to go way up !!! I think they sound more 'shrilly', a higher pitch perhaps. I don't know for sure. Like I said, maybe it's just me!

 

[Horsebackrules]

hmm... I think I'll just get welsh harlequins. I personally don't like how muscovies look. They look so strange lol. Also I would love to have an indoor duck but I don't know if my parents would agree :/ I'd probably get a goose and a goose diaper if I did though. My dog wouldn't approve either. She was scared of my friend's ferret when I was taking care of it.

(she's a shih-poo) I think I'll keep it outside but if not then I would love to have it in my room! Especially since it would make it easier to spend more time with it and keep it warm in winter. But the hatchery I'm ordering from will only ship two minimum. I wouldn't want the her to get lonely while I'm at school either...especially when she's a duckling. I will be keeping them inside for 2-3 months when they are young though! And I might every now and then when they're older.

 

[Ibicella]

I'm very fond of our Cayugas. They are beautiful, funny, and intelligent birds. They are pretty quiet most of the time except if one of the hens is upset about something, and then she can quack loudly. I have a drake and two females. They aren't much fond of being picked up and cuddled, but they are very sociable and it's clear that they love me. When I'm out spending time in the yard, they love to be around me, nap next to me, and try to untie my shoelaces. *L* Shoelaces are the greatest duck toys EVER in their opinion!

They all have distinct personalities. With Cayugas, you may get a very cuddly bird or not. My drake seems to be figuring out that being held is nice and means mealworms, so he's really good about it. One of the hens struggles a bit at first, but will settle down after a minute.The last hen is intent on fighting me handling her every step of the way. She's getting a lot better about it though because she needs to learn that I'm the boss, and she needs to learn how to be calm in my arms so I can check her health or take care of her if she gets sick or injured without her freaking out about it. How cuddly they are doesn't seem to be a breed trait, more of how much you handle them and train them sort of thing.

They do enjoy water, though their enthusiasm for it tends to wane the older they get. It's not absolutely necessary for them to have swim-time, but I'm certain they will take advantage of your pond though.

I do think if you get a Cayuga, you won't be disappointed.




Mine love snuggles when it's THEIR idea!




Camera straps and shoelaces are fun duck toys!

 

[Horsebackrules]

awwww those guys are so adorable! I have decided to get a Cayuga and a Welsh Harlequin

also a toulouse goose