Pekin Duck
Snowball and Oscar
The Pekin is a large domestic duck. Pekin Ducks have pure white feathers with orange legs and bills. Pekin Ducks range in weight from 8-12 pounds. One reason ducks are able to stay afloat in the water is because of air sacs inside their bodies that increase their buoyancy. Ducks’ feathers trap air in between them, which is another adaptation that helps them to float. Their feathers are also covered with a waterproof substance that keeps the ducks warm and dry. Ducks’ webbed feet allow them to maneuver easily in the water. Many ducks are excellent fliers due to their streamlined bodies, powerful wings, and hollow bones that weigh much less than the solid bones of mammals. Although Pekin Ducks are poor fliers due to their large, heavy bodies, they do have the strong wings and hollow bones that are common to other types of ducks. Ducks do not have teeth, but they do have bumpy edges on their bills that help them to filter food out of the water. Pekin ducks are known for being calm and docile, making them relatively easy to handle and care for.