The Cayuga Duck is a striking and hardy breed known for its iridescent black feathers that often display a greenish or purple sheen, and for its excellent egg-laying and meat qualities.
Key Features:
Appearance: Cayuga ducks have deep black feathers with a beautiful iridescence that can range from green to purple, especially in sunlight. They have a medium-to-large build with a slightly rounded body. Males (drakes) tend to be larger than females (hens), but both have similar coloration.
Size: Cayuga ducks are medium to large, with drakes typically weighing around 8-9 lbs and hens around 7-8 lbs. Their size makes them well-suited for both egg production and meat.
Egg Production: Cayugas are reliable layers, producing around 150-200 large, dark gray to black eggs per year. Their eggs are unique due to their dark color, which can turn to a lighter color as the laying season progresses.
Temperament: Known for their calm and friendly nature, Cayuga ducks are social and get along well with other poultry. They are relatively easy to handle and make excellent pets for families and backyard flocks.
Hardiness: Cayugas are hardy ducks, able to adapt to both hot and cold climates. They are resilient and enjoy access to water for swimming and foraging. Their strong foraging instincts help keep them healthy and active.
 
Summary:
The Cayuga Duck is a beautiful, hardy breed known for its glossy black feathers, excellent egg production, and flavorful meat. Friendly and calm, they are perfect for backyard flocks, providing unique dark eggs and strong foraging abilities.