Saxony Ducks: A Popular German Domestic Breed

Meet the Saxony Ducks! These ducks come from Germany and they’re super cool. They were made back in the 1930s but almost disappeared during World War II. Luckily, some awesome breeders saved them. 

Saxony duck looks really cool, especially the males who have blue-gray, chestnut, and cream feathers. The females are pretty too with their buff color and white spots. These ducks aren’t just good-looking, they’re also friendly and chill. That’s why they’re great for backyard flocks. They’re also great foragers with excellent egg-lay capability.

Let’s learn more about this amazing duck breed! Get to know how you can raise and breed them with proper care!

A Short Profile of Saxony Ducks Profile

If you’re interested in getting Saxony duck, be sure to find a reputable breeder. But before that, check out this short profile of such a breed –

History And Location Of the Saxony Duck Breed

The Saxony duck has a remarkable story of survival and human effort.

Originating in Germany

Developed in the 1930s by Albert Franz in Saxony, Germany. Franz mixed German Pekin, Blue Pomeranian, and Rouen ducks to make a breed good for both meat and eggs.

First shown in the “Saxony Show of 1934,” giving them their name.

Near Extinction and Amazing Comeback

During World War II, most Saxony ducks died. Franz worked hard to rebuild the breed after the war.

Recognized in East Germany in 1957 and West Germany in 1958, marking a big comeback.

Spreading Across the World

By the 1960s, Saxony ducks were in Switzerland and France. They became known in the UK in 1982, and in the US in the 1980s. Where breeders and backyard owners love them.

Where They Are Today and Conservation

Saxony ducks are now in many countries, including Germany, the UK, the US, and Canada. Despite their return, they’re still watched by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy. So it’s important to keep working to protect them.

Physical Appearance of the Saxony Ducks

Saxony ducks have a standout appearance that sets them apart from other breeds.

Male Saxony Ducks (Drakes)

• Color: Gray heads, deep chestnut or burgundy chests, and a white ring around their necks. Drakes often look like a Mallard pattern.
• Size: Typically around 9 pounds.
• Distinctive Features: Gray head, chestnut chest, and white neck ring make them easy to spot.

Female Saxony Ducks

• Plumage: Peach or salmon-colored with white and gray wing patterns.
• Size: Usually up to 8 pounds.

General Traits

• Regal Carriage: Rounded chests and slightly arched necks give them a noble appearance.
• Yellow-Orange Beaks and Legs: Their beaks and legs are charmingly colored.
• Unique Coloring: Their special coloring makes Saxony ducks a lovely addition to any flock.

Here is a video for you!

The Personality of the Saxony Duck Breed

Beyond their appearance, Saxony ducks have earned a reputation for their personalities. Let’s share some facts about their personality traits –

Calm and Friendly Nature

Saxony duck breeds are known for being gentle giants and docile around humans.

They enjoy interacting and are suitable for families with children. Relatively quiet compared to other breeds. So, it makes them good neighbors.

Active and Curious Spirits

Saxony ducks love exploring their environment and foraging for food.

Their playful energy and curious nature make them entertaining companions. So, give them enough space and activities for enrichment.

Social Nature

They form strong bonds within their flock and thrive in the company of other ducks. Males can be territorial during breeding season.

However, introducing them to compatible breeds can enhance their social lives.

Also, Saxony ducks love mealtime! They might nudge or nip you gently as a reminder, but remember it’s all out of friendly persistence. Just make sure to feed them well!

Unique Vocalization

Emit a soft, raspy sound instead of a loud quack. It adds to their calm demeanor.

This breed is ideal for suburban neighborhoods due to its quieter nature.

Reproduction And Breeding Of Saxony Ducks

Thinking of starting a Saxony duck family? Here’s what you need to know about their breeding habits and responsible practices.

When does the Saxony Duck Breed start the breeding session?

Saxony ducks typically get into the reproduction mood during spring. The breeding usually starts between March and May.

This aligns with naturally longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. Which are optimal for raising ducklings.

How long does it take for Saxony Ducks to hatch?

Once a fertilized egg is laid, it takes about 28 days for it to hatch. So, wait for at least 28 days to let the baby chicks come.

How To Breed Saxony Ducks?

Saxony ducks have natural breeding instincts. However, responsible breeding practices are crucial. Here’s what you need to consider.

Before You Start

• Learn about taking care of ducklings, what they eat, and what problems they might face.
• Make sure you have enough space, time, and money to look after ducks.
• Wait until your ducks are at least a year old and healthy before breeding them.
• Get a safe place for them to live, a cozy nesting box, clean water, and the right food.

During Breeding Time

• Keep an eye out for any fighting. It’s especially true if you have more than one boy duck. Keep them apart if they fight.
• Make sure where they live and lay eggs is clean.
• Pick up any eggs every day and store them somewhere cool. It’s when you prefer to hatch them.

Hatching and Raising Ducklings

• If you use a machine to hatch them, set it to 99.5°F and keep it a bit wet. As I said, they hatch in about 28 days.
• Set up a warm box with light, cozy bedding, food, and water for the baby ducks. Make sure it’s warm enough for them.
• Give them food made for baby ducks. Always have clean water and bedding. Watch how they grow, become ducklings, and if they’re healthy.

How Many Eggs Does the Saxony Ducks Lay?

On average, a Saxony duck can lay a whopping 200 eggs per year. So, you can call them prolific egg producers. During the peak breeding season, you can expect one egg per day.

What color eggs do Saxony ducks lay?

Saxony ducks lay beautiful white eggs. It’s unlike many other breeds that lay brown or green eggs. This makes them stand out and adds a touch of elegance to your breakfast basket. Or for the poultry purpose as well!

6 Amazing Purposes of Saxony Ducks!

Rather than thinking about which purpose serves the “best,” remember Saxony ducks deserve fulfilling lives. Here are some of the roles they can play:

Certainly! Here’s a simplified and organized version:

1. Meat and Eggs: Saxony ducks provide both tasty meat and large, white eggs annually. So, consider them a dual-purpose breed!
2. Companionship: They have a calm and friendly nature. It makes them great companions for both adults and children.
3. Backyard Ecosystem Contributors: Saxony ducks excel at foraging. In this way, they naturally control insects, weeds, and garden pests.
4. Aesthetics: Their appearance adds beauty to any backyard.
5. Education: Saxony ducks are excellent for educating about animal husbandry and appreciation for waterfowl diversity.

How To Raise the Saxony Ducks

Only have baby ducks if you’re ready to take care of them properly. Be sure they have a good life. For this, here’s a guideline for you –

Getting Ready

Make sure they have a big space to live, at least 10-15 square feet per duck. They need clean water and a safe place to sleep.

Get them – 

• Feeders
• Waterers
• Bedding
• Nesting boxes, and
• Right food for their age.

Bringing Them Home

Let them get used to their new home slowly, away from other animals. Watch out for signs they might be sick and talk to a vet if you’re worried.

Daily Care

Give them fresh food and water every day. Keep Things Clean: Clean up their space regularly to keep them healthy. Also, if they lay eggs, gather them every day.

Extras to Keep Them Happy

Give them things to play with, like shallow pools or toys. Keep them warm and make sure their water doesn’t freeze in cold weather.

Keep an eye out for animals that might harm them.

Extra Tips for Indoor Living

If they live inside, make sure they have enough room to move around. Keep at least 20 square feet per duck.

Also, be ready to clean up after them and give them things to do indoors.

What Are Some Pros And Cons of Saxony Ducks?

Remember, responsible pet ownership involves understanding both the positive and negative aspects. So, here are the pros and cons of the Saxony duck breed –

Pros of Saxony Duck

• Calm and friendly companions
• Provide both meat and eggs
• Help control garden pests naturally
• Add vibrant color to your backyard
• Responsible care helps preserve the breed

Cons of Saxony Duck

• Need a spacious enclosure with access to water
• Daily care, cleaning, and enrichment needed
• Vocalizations, especially during the breeding season
• Require additional shelter and water protection
• Indoor living needs adaptations and constant supervision

Related Articles:

• Abacot Ranger Duck Breed: Why You Should Consider Them
• East Indie Duck Breed: Are They Your Backyard Profitable Pal
• Are American Pekin Right For You

FAQs

Here are some related questions about Saxony ducks. Be sure to check the queries to get more facts.

Summarization

Saxony ducks almost disappeared during World War II, but some caring breeders saved them. They’re great for backyards because they’re friendly, helpful with eggs, and control pests. The breed needs good care and space, but their benefits are worth it. With lots of eggs and pest control skills, Saxony ducks show why we should protect old breeds.

So, we need to take care of Saxony ducks so they keep doing well worldwide. This means making sure they’re safe and healthy.