Welsh Harlequin
The Welsh Harlequin is a breed of domestic duck originating in Wales. In 1949, in Criccieth, Group Captain Leslie Bonnet discovered a color mutation among his flock of Khaki Campbells and began breeding selectively for the trait. By 1968, hatching eggs were exported to the United States, followed by the importation of live birds in 1981.
Today, the Welsh Harlequin is a light-weight duck breed known for its vivid plumage and egg laying ability. Welsh Harlequins weigh 5 to 6 pounds (2-3 kilos). Females have a black bill, and their plumage is a creamy white color bearing brown stippling, with brown wings edged in white. Drakes are similar to a faded Mallard with a yellow bill, although their wings may have green edging.
The birds produce a lean carcass and are active foragers, though they are sometimes more vulnerable to predators such as birds of prey due to their light coloration. The egg laying ability is highly valued as the production exhibited by some hens rivals rivals that of chickens. The breed is prone to broodiness and a pair can easily produce young without human interference. They have become a popular backyard pet in recent years due to the bird's calm demeanor and egg production.
The Welsh Harlequin was admitted to the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection in 2001. The breed is considered to be critically endangered in North America by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy, with only 188 breeding birds found in a 2000 census.
See also
References
- Ekarius, Carol (2007). Storey's Illustrated Guide to Poultry Breeds. Storey Publishing. ISBN 978-1-58017-667-5.
- "Welsh Harlequin Duck". Rare Breeds Watchlist. American Livestock Breeds Conservancy.
- "Welsh Harlequin Ducks". feathersite.com.