The Rouen Duck is a large, elegant breed known for its striking appearance and good meat and egg production. Often compared to the Mallard due to its similar coloration, the Rouen is a popular choice for both ornamental and farm purposes.
Key Features:
Appearance: Rouen ducks have rich, iridescent plumage with a deep green head (males) and a chestnut-brown body. Females are slightly more subdued in color, with a brownish hue and lighter markings. Their large, robust bodies make them an impressive sight.
Size: Rouen ducks are large, with drakes typically weighing 8-9 lbs and hens around 7-8 lbs. Their large size makes them well-suited for meat production, although they are slower to mature than smaller breeds.
Egg Production: While not as prolific as some other breeds, Rouen ducks lay around 200-250 medium to large white eggs per year. Their eggs are rich in flavor, and they are often kept for both eggs and ornamental purposes.
Temperament: Rouen ducks are calm, friendly, and easygoing, making them great for families and small farms. They are not as active as some other breeds, preferring to waddle slowly around the yard and forage.
Hardiness: Rouen ducks are hardy and can adapt to a variety of climates. They thrive in environments with access to water, where they can swim and forage.
 
Summary:
The Rouen Duck is a large, beautiful breed known for its striking plumage and excellent meat production. While not the most prolific egg layer, they are friendly, calm, and hardy, making them a great choice for ornamental purposes and backyard flocks.