Magpie

The Magpie duck is a British domestic duck developed in the early twentieth century as a practical, attractive utility breed. Its name comes from the bold pied pattern: a mostly white bird with a colored cap, back, and tail area, most commonly black-and-white or blue-and-white. The body is lighter and more upright than a Pekin, but broader than an Indian Runner, giving it a useful middle ground for eggs and a modest table carcass. Pattern quality varies widely, and not every black-and-white barnyard duck is a true Magpie.

Magpies are active foragers and fit well on small farms, orchards, and roomy backyard setups where they can search for insects and greens. They need the usual duck provisions of safe night housing, clean bathing water, and feed that matches laying or growing demands. Breeding for the correct markings takes patience because pied patterns can shift from one generation to the next; exhibition breeders may select for cap size, back color, and clean white areas, while utility keepers may emphasize eggs, fertility, and hardiness. The breed remains uncommon in many places, so sourcing unrelated birds can be important for maintaining strong flocks.

Colors: Apricot, Bibbed, Black, Black and White, Blue, Blue and White, Buff, Chocolate, Fawn, Gray, Magpie, Mallard, Penciled, Pied, Runner Pattern, Silver, White