Rouen Duck Breed: Personality, Lifespan, Food & Care

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General Introduction of the Breed

The Rouen Duck is a large domesticated duck breed known for its striking plumage and calm demeanor. In French, it is called “Canard de Rouen.” It originates from France and was further developed in England for its meat quality.

The breed was named after the French city of Rouen and was selectively bred for its size and coloration. It became popular in Europe in the 19th century and was later introduced to North America, where it remains a favored breed for both exhibition and utility purposes.

Common Name	Rouen Duck
Scientific Name	Anas platyrhynchos domesticus
Origin	France (further developed in England)
Size	Large; Males: 8–10 lbs, Females: 6–8 lbs
Lifespan	5–9 years
Colors	Males: glossy green head, white collar; Females: mottled brown
Talking Ability	Very limited; makes typical duck quacking sounds
Noise Level	Moderate; quieter than some other duck breeds
Social Behavior	Gentle, social, and non-aggressive; friendly with humans and other ducks

Physical Characteristics

Rouen Ducks are large waterfowl, with males typically weighing 8-10 lbs (3.6-4.5 kg) and females ranging from 6-8 lbs (2.7-3.6 kg). They closely resemble the Mallard in appearance but are heavier and have a more elongated body.

Their plumage includes a glossy green head with a white collar for males, while females have a mottled brown coloration. The eyes are dark brown, and they have a medium-length bill that can be yellow or orange, depending on sex.

Rouen Ducks have a straight tail and small tucked-in wings, giving them a gracefully rounded appearance. One of their distinctive features is their deep keel, which makes them look more prominent on water.

Personality and Temperament

Rouen Ducks are calm and friendly birds, making them an excellent choice for backyard farms and homesteads. They are relatively intelligent and capable of recognizing their caretakers.

They have a moderate activity level and enjoy foraging in grassy areas. While they aren’t as energetic as Mallards, they still require enough space to move around.

Rouens are social ducks that enjoy the company of other ducks. They are gentle with people and can become quite attached to their owners if raised from a young age. They are not aggressive and are generally safe around children and other pets.

Care and Maintenance Requirements

Rouen Ducks require a secured outdoor space with access to clean water for swimming. They thrive in farms, large backyards, or rural environments where they can forage and roam.

Grooming requirements are minimal; they keep their feathers clean through preening. However, owners should ensure they have access to water where they can immerse themselves to maintain feather health.

Diet and Nutrition

Rouen Ducks thrive on a diet of high-quality poultry feed, supplemented with grains, greens, and vegetables. A balanced diet ensures their growth and overall health.

It is essential to avoid feeding them processed or salty foods, chocolate, avocado, onions, and citrus fruits, as these can be harmful to ducks.

Providing appropriate portions depends on their size and level of activity. Fresh drinking water should always be available to aid in digestion.

Health and Common Medical Issues

Rouen Ducks are generally hardy but prone to certain health concerns like bumblefoot, respiratory infections, and egg-binding in females. Ensuring they have a clean environment reduces disease risks.

They can also suffer from nutritional deficiencies if not provided with a well-balanced diet. Regular veterinary checkups can help detect and prevent health issues.

The average lifespan of a Rouen Duck is around 5-9 years, depending on the level of care they receive.

Training and Behavior Management

Training Rouen Ducks is relatively easy if started early. They respond well to consistent routines and can recognize feeding times and their owner’s voice.

Positive reinforcement, such as providing treats, helps encourage good behavior. Training them to respond to calls or return to their coop in the evening can be beneficial.

Early socialization ensures they remain friendly, making them excellent companions for people raising backyard flocks.

Interaction with Other Animals and Humans

Rouen Ducks are highly social birds that enjoy the company of other ducks. They are gentle with humans and safe around children, making them ideal for family environments.

They coexist well with other farm animals, but caution is needed when introducing them to larger pets such as dogs or cats.

They are best suited for individuals or families who enjoy farm life and have space for them to thrive.

Price and Availability

The cost of a Rouen Duck can range from $10 to $30, depending on age, quality, and breeder reputation. Exhibition-grade Rouens may be more expensive.

Potential buyers should source ducks from reputable breeders or poultry farms to ensure they receive healthy birds. Ducklings are commonly available in the spring through hatcheries and farm suppliers.

It is always advisable to check local poultry laws and ensure proper accommodations before acquiring Rouen Ducks.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Rouen Ducks are an excellent breed for those looking for a calm, friendly, and attractive duck for their farm or backyard. They make great pets and are also valued for their utility.

FAQ

Are Rouen Ducks good pets for families?

Yes, Rouen Ducks are calm, friendly, and gentle, making them a great choice for families, including homes with children.

Can Rouen Ducks live in hot or cold climates?

They tolerate cold weather well due to their size and feathering but need shade and water access during hot weather.

What do Rouen Ducks eat?

Their diet should include high-quality poultry feed, grains, greens, and vegetables. Avoid salty, processed, or toxic foods like onions and chocolate.