The process of selecting breeding ducks is a crucial step in both purebred and crossbreeding programs. Due to the fact that ducks are typically raised in groups and lay eggs at night, it can be challenging to accurately track individual performance and make informed choices based on records. As a result, in practical breeding scenarios, visual assessment and physical characteristics are commonly used as primary selection criteria.
(1) Selection of Male Ducks
When male ducks reach 8 to 10 weeks of age, an initial screening can be conducted based on their physical traits. A second round of selection takes place when they are between 6 to 7 months old. At this stage, it's important to collect and evaluate semen samples. The volume and quality of the semen serve as key indicators for determining the suitability of a male duck. Healthy semen should appear milky white; if it is clear or thin, it may indicate poor fertility and should not be used for breeding.
Specific selection criteria for male ducks include:
1. Egg-type males should have a large head, long neck, bright eyes, a wide and even beak, a broad body, dense and shiny feathers, well-defined secondary sexual features, wings close to the body, strong legs, and a healthy build with standard weight.
2. Meat-type males should have a rectangular body shape, a thick neck, a straight and broad back, a slightly flat chest, sturdy legs, clean and neat feathers, fast growth, and good breeding potential.
(b) Selection of Female Ducks
Female ducks are also evaluated during their early development. At 8 to 10 weeks of age, a preliminary selection is made based on appearance. A more detailed evaluation occurs when they are 4 to 5 months old, with continued assessments until the breeding season begins at around 6 to 7 months.
Specific selection criteria for female ducks include:
1. Egg-type females should have a medium-sized head, a slender neck, bright and alert eyes, a long and straight back, a broad chest and abdomen, a wide pelvis, dense and smooth feathers, wings close to the body, and moderate body fat with strong health.
2. Meat-type females should have a trapezoidal body shape, a short but thick leg, fine and soft feathers, a small head and neck, a plump belly, an open pelvis, and high fertility.
In addition to these physical traits, breeders often consider factors such as overall health, disease resistance, and egg-laying performance (for layers) or meat yield (for broilers). These combined factors help ensure that only the most suitable ducks are selected for breeding, ultimately leading to better productivity and genetic improvement in the flock.
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