Crossbred

Crossbred Muscovy duck can mean two different things in poultry listings: a Muscovy produced from mixed domestic Muscovy lines, or a Muscovy crossed with a mallard-derived domestic duck such as a Pekin. The second type is often called a mule duck or mulard, and it is generally sterile. Within-Muscovy crosses may show the usual caruncles, quiet voice, broad body, and varied colors, while interspecific hybrids often have a more intermediate shape and are raised mainly for meat.

Because the word crossbred is used loosely, buyers and keepers should ask what the parents were before assuming the bird can breed true. Care is similar to other domestic waterfowl, with clean water, secure night housing, shade in hot weather, and feed matched to growth or laying stage. Heavy meat crosses can be harder on their legs than lighter yard Muscovies, so footing, body condition, and slow, calm handling are worth watching.

Colors: Barred, Black, Black and White, Blue, Blue Fawn, Bronze, Chocolate, Chocolate and White, Lavender, Pied, Ripple, Self-Blue, Solid, White, White-Headed