From my bunch of
spring ducklings, i like the Buff-Orpingtons best so far. They are super friendly, i can touch them without causing heart attacks and the little drake sometimes jumps on my lap though since this morning i am not sure about
his real intention…
The Magpies are a bit skiddish and violate the "breed standard" in almost all possible ways with crests, blue and green feathers.
The White Layers are giants! Loud voices and during feeding times behave like big white battle tanks. My Runners are afraid of them…
The White Layers were from Metzer's and the BO's and Magpies came from IdealPoiltry.
@Magnolia Ducks came up with the theory that Metzer's ducklings are larger than those from Ideal, but less agile and i can confirm that so far.
Has anyone tried the Meyer Hatcheries from Ohio? - Since you're in Maryland they are closer than i.e. Metzer.
Maybe this
little flock-planner form can help you making your decision. it is preliminary, i am waiting for the confirmation from Metzer farms that i am allowed to use some of their duck-pictures, so please don't spread this link too far…