Swedish Blue

The Swedish Blue, more commonly standardized in some countries as the Blue Swedish, is the blue variety of the Swedish domestic duck. It is a medium to large duck with a slate-blue body, white bib, and sturdy farm-duck build, descended from northern European utility ducks selected for meat, eggs, and weather tolerance. The blue shade comes from an incompletely dominant dilution gene, so individual birds can range from pale blue-gray to darker slate.

A useful point for buyers and breeders is that blue does not breed true: blue-to-blue matings typically produce a mix of blue, black, and splash or silver-colored ducklings. This is normal genetics, not necessarily a sign of poor stock. Swedish Blues need room to move, reliable fencing, clean water for bathing, and a balanced waterfowl ration, especially while growing. For exhibition or conservation-minded breeding, selection usually favors a well-shaped bib, good body depth, sound legs, and steady temperament as much as color.