The Rouen is a heavy domestic [[Ducks|duck]] breed originating in France, named after the city of Rouen in Normandy. The breed closely resembles the wild Mallard in color pattern but is significantly larger and heavier. Rouens are kept primarily for meat production, though they are slower to mature than the Pekin. The breed is also valued for its attractive plumage and historic place among the foundation duck breeds.
The Rouen duck was developed in France through selective breeding of wild Mallards. French farmers selected for larger body size while preserving the Mallard's color pattern. The breed takes its name from the city of Rouen, a historic center of the French duck industry. Rouens were imported to England in the 18th century and to the United States in the 19th.
The Rouen was one of the foundation breeds of the North American duck industry. Before the Pekin became the dominant meat duck, Rouens were widely raised for table production. The breed was admitted to the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection in 1874. The breed declined in commercial importance as the faster-growing Pekin became the standard, but it is still raised by small-scale producers and heritage breed enthusiasts.
Rouen ducks are large, heavy birds with the classic Mallard color pattern. The drake has an iridescent green head, white collar band, chestnut breast, and gray body with blue-gray speculum feathers. The hen is mottled brown with the same speculum. Hens weigh 7 to 9 pounds (3.2 to 4.1 kilograms), and drakes weigh 8 to 11 pounds (3.6 to 5.0 kilograms). The bill is yellow or orange with a greenish tint.
Rouens are slower to reach maturity than Pekins, typically requiring 12 to 16 weeks to reach slaughter weight. The meat is flavorful and less fatty than Pekin meat. The breed is a moderate egg layer, producing 80 to 150 eggs per year. Rouens are docile but less active than lighter duck breeds.
Rouen ducks are raised for meat on homesteads where flavor is prioritized over growth rate. The meat is darker and more flavorful than Pekin, with a lower fat content. The breed's attractive plumage makes it suitable for exhibition as well. Rouens forage well and maintain a good body condition on pasture.
The breed's slow growth rate means they require a longer commitment to feeding before processing. They are not as efficient as Pekins for meat production in terms of feed conversion. Rouens are also heavier and less agile than lighter breeds, making them more vulnerable to predators.