The Pekin is a domestic [[Ducks|duck]] breed originating in China and is the most common duck breed raised for meat worldwide. Pekins are large, fast-growing white ducks with a calm temperament and efficient feed conversion. The Pekin is the duck breed most familiar to North American consumers, as it comprises the vast majority of duck meat sold commercially. The breed is also a moderate egg layer and is well-suited to small-scale and homestead duck production.
The Pekin duck was developed in China, likely in the area around Beijing (then Peking), where ducks had been domesticated for thousands of years. The breed was first imported to the United States in 1873, when 15 birds were shipped from China to the New York farmer James E. Palmer. Palmer's shipment was the foundation of the Pekin duck industry in North America.
The American Pekin differs from the German Pekin and other European strains due to divergent selection goals. American breeders selected for rapid growth, large body size, and white feathers for clean carcass presentation. By the early 20th century, the Pekin was established as the standard meat duck in the United States. The breed was admitted to the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection in 1874.
Pekin ducks are large, upright birds with white feathers, orange bills, and orange legs and feet. Hens weigh 7 to 9 pounds (3.2 to 4.1 kilograms), and drakes weigh 8 to 10 pounds (3.6 to 4.5 kilograms). The body is long, deep, and broad with a prominent breast. The carriage is nearly upright, giving Pekins a distinctive waddle. The feathers are white, and the skin is pinkish-white.
Pekins are not strong fliers and can be contained with low fencing. They are docile and easy to handle. Hens lay 180 to 240 large white eggs per year under good management. Pekin ducklings grow rapidly, reaching slaughter weight of 5 to 7 pounds (2.3 to 3.2 kilograms) in 7 to 9 weeks.
Meat production is the primary purpose of Pekin ducks on homesteads. The ducks reach a marketable size quickly on starter feed, and the meat is tender with a mild flavor. Pekins also produce a useful number of eggs, which are larger than chicken eggs and valued by bakers for their high protein content.
Pekins require access to water for drinking and dabbling but do not require a pond for successful rearing. They are heavy breeders, with hens laying well from late winter through summer. Pekins are cold-hardy but require shade in hot weather. Their white feathers make them more visible to predators, and secure housing is essential at night.