What duck would be good for our situation?

[jillah]

We really want to get ducks but I'm burned out trying to find the right breed! We've never had ducks before, only chickens. Mainly they need to be pretty quiet as we live close to our neighbors, but good layers. A duel- purpose duck would be a bonus. We have a pretty big fenced in area they can free-range in...it would be better if they weren't prone to flying out. Any help and advice would be appreciated! Thanks!
Jill

 

[Kevin565]

All female ducks with the exception of Muscovies are fairly loud. Some breeds are more calm than others. Runners and Khaki campbells are great layers but some people say they are on the skittish side. Welsh Harlequins are dual purpose and may be the right choice for you.

 

[zooweemama]

I second what Kevin said. If there are more than a couple - they can be loud. Muscovies are very quiet, good meat birds but lay seasonally - not year round. WHs are a decent meat bird and great layer. I know Khaki Campbells are fantastic layers too (not sure if they are good meat birds?). Runners are good layers (ours are more quiet than some of the others BUT) they are not good meat birds. They are really skinny.