The Indian Runner is a distinctive [[Ducks|duck]] breed originating in the Indonesian archipelago, characterized by its upright, penguin-like stance and running gait. Indian Runners are lightweight ducks bred primarily for egg production, and they are among the most efficient egg-laying duck breeds. Their unusual body shape and active nature distinguish them from all other domestic duck breeds.
The Indian Runner was developed in the islands of Indonesia, particularly Bali, Java, and Lombok, where they were kept for egg production in small villages. The breed's upright posture and running gait rather than waddling were noted by European visitors as early as the 19th century. The breed was exported to England in the mid-19th century and was further refined for egg production.
The breed name is misleading, as the ducks originate from Southeast Asia rather than India. The name was likely assigned by British sailors who disembarked at Indian ports during the journey from Southeast Asia to England. Indian Runners were admitted to the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection in 1898. The breed was once widely used in duck egg production but has been largely replaced by the Khaki Campbell in commercial operations.
Indian Runners are medium-sized ducks with a body that is nearly vertical in posture. The body is long, slender, and cylindrical, held at an angle of 80 degrees or more from horizontal. The legs are set farther back on the body than in other duck breeds, which gives them their distinctive running gait. Hens weigh 3.5 to 4.5 pounds (1.6 to 2.0 kilograms), and drakes weigh 4 to 5 pounds (1.8 to 2.3 kilograms). The breed occurs in a wide range of colors, including white, black, fawn-and-white, blue, brown, and Cumberland blue.
Indian Runners are active, alert birds that are excellent foragers. They are flighty and more excitable than the heavier duck breeds. A hen lays 180 to 260 eggs per year, with some lines exceeding 300. The eggs are large, white, and weigh 2.5 to 3 ounces (70 to 85 grams). The breed is not typically kept for meat due to its small, slender body.
Indian Runners are kept for egg production on homesteads, particularly on small acreage where their foraging ability can be utilized. Their active nature makes them more effective at catching insects and controlling garden pests than heavier breeds. The breed's upright posture gives them a unique appearance that is popular in exhibition.
Indian Runners are flighty and require secure fencing. They are less cold-hardy than the Pekin due to their smaller body mass and lighter feathering. Their slender body means they are not suitable for meat production.