What's the best age to process ducks?

[henjoy]

I know the ducks that I have won't be very meaty, they're runner ducks, but I'm not sure about when to process. This is the first time that I've had more ducks than I have room for. Besides, I'd like to try duck. It is not readily available in stores here and if I do find it, it is prohibitively expensive. Any suggestions? Thanks!

 

[houndit]

Pekin are supposed to be ready in just a couple months. We dressed out a couple muscovy drakes that were about a year old. I think you can dress them out just about any time you want. If they are older you have to cook them longer.