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Keeping Black East Indies Ducks
The Black East Indies is a decorative breed of domestic ducks. In spite
of the breed’s name, it was never developed or breed in the East Indies
(now Southeast Asia). It was first bred in the United States in the
early 19th century. Some raisers started to call it the East Indies and
this particular breed is distinguished by its attractive appearance:
jet black color, iridescent green feather coverings and dark bills.
The females can sometimes grow white tinge feathers as they mature. A
bantam breed weighing around 2 lbs, Black East Indies are widely raised
by hobbyists for exhibition purposes. Being small, they are known as
good fliers. This breed was formally recognized by the American Poultry
Association’s Standard of Perfection in 1875. The Black East Indies
duck is very popular among raisers, and the breed has a docile
temperament, they are basically more passive and obedient than Call
ducks.
This breed has been known as the Black East Indies as early as 1865,
but has been widely raised with different names such as Buenos Aires
Duck, Black Brazilian and Labrador.
The Black East Indies Ducks is a very remarkable duck breed and is very
easy to differentiate from other breeds due to their plumage that is
basically dark green. They have short black bills and their legs are
either grey or black. Some female of this breed can have a white
feather covering in the tail region, males can weigh about 5-7 lbs and
the females can weigh about 4-5 lbs. As ducklings, they have a distinct
black plumage, and gradually changes to green sheens as they mature.
This breed is very domineering and strong. They do not like to remain
dormant for too long because they are very active. The striking feature
about the Black East Indies Ducks is that their eggs are primarily
heavy gray, but then changes to a brighter shade before they are
hatched.
Most East Indies ducks are kept as pairs or trios, based on the drakes’
level of energy. They can lay at least 100 eggs every year, and will
not sit and brood their eggs if they are touched by humans. As they are
very good fliers, they tend to fly and escape the coop so you can clip
their wings or pinion them. However, before pinioning, you should
consult a veterinarian as they should be administered when only
necessary.
Like the Cayuga breed’s solid plumage, the runners in the females will
usually fade and white feathers appear as they age. However, they can
still produce offspring. A white plumage in the Black East Indies
Drakes can appear in the chest as they mature.
Like most duck breeds, the Black East Indies breed is very easy to
keep. Most raisers keep this breed for domestic and ornamental
purposes. They can also be raised in the suburbs because they are
handy, but you should pinion them if you don’t want them to escape. If
you have a baby pool, you can use it for their swimming area. Most
hobbyists raise the breed because they provide relaxation when they
glide effortlessly through a pond or any water surface.
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