I vote for Muscovies. They’ve had the least “human interference”. No one has messed too much with their genetics to make them fatter or lay more eggs. They tend to lay with the sole focus of creating a clutch to raise more Muscovies. Because they spend so much time being broody, they lay fewer eggs. The females are not overly heavy, but are strong and solid.
As for getting along with mallard-derived hens, they will socialize, but they very much appreciate having someone of their own kind that speaks their language.
My two are the “top ducks” of my little flock. They usually make their position clear with just a “playful” feather nip (which amuses them greatly) but they do have more ornery moments when broody or bored. They definitely have 110% personality.
Anyways, my two are only four, but have had no health issues beyond torn nails.
@Miss Lydia has far more experience with them and I believe even has one that is 14 years old!
Anyways, Muscovies get my vote. I also have Rouen hens and had a Pekin hen. My Pekin died mysteriously at 2, and my oldest Rouen (6 years old) has had endless reproductive issues that I blame on poor genetics.
