CALL - The Call has been standardised since the first edition of the Standards, and was formerly known as the 'Decoy', due to its distinctive shrill quacking. They have been known in Holland for many centuries. Certainly, they are the number one domestic breed of duck on the continent, and the most popular in Britain. Classified as a Bantam Duck, they are very sociable, easy to breed, and particularly endearing. There are numerous colours of Call, but without doubt the most frequently seen is the White which, when presented in top form, always seems to be amongst the major prizes.

ROUEN - The Rouen is one of the largest breeds of domestic duck and thus classified as 'heavy'. The plumage closely resembles that of the wild mallard, the progenitor of nearly all domestic duck breeds. The Rouen originated in Rouen in France, and was also known as the 'Rhone' duck. When it first appeared in Britain, the breed was developed for table properties - even today, it is capable of reaching 12lb in weight. It is now bred mainly for beauty of plumage and markings.

SILVER APPLEYARD - The Silver Appleyard is a good all-round utility breed of duck producing significant numbers of eggs and a good carcase and is classified as 'Heavy'. Produced by Mr Reginald Appleyard from selective cross-breeding, it is a good layer, excellent table bird and very ornamental. The female's plumage is silver-white and fawn in colour. There is also a miniature version, classified as a Bantam duck, with the general characteristics and colour of the large. Formerly, the 'Silver Bantam duck' was known as the Silver Appleyard bantam although the colouring differed significantly from the Appleyard. The miniature is extremely easy to keep and an excellent egg layer.

ORPINGTON - William Cook from Orpington, Kent (also the originator of the Orpington breed of fowl) made the Buff Orpington by blending Indian Runner, Rouen, and Aylesbury. His intention was to make a dual-purpose breed. The Orpington is classified as a 'Light' breed and can attain a weight of 7lb. At one time it was very popular for its excellent laying qualities combined with potential for the table, and certainly its plumage and colouring which is beautiful. The plumage itself should be a rich even shade of deep red-buff, free from blue, brown or white, excepting the drake's head which is seal brown with bright gloss.

PEKIN - The Pekin reached this country in 1872 from China, and also appeared in America at around the same time. Originally, English breeders preferred a buff/canary plumage colour with deep cream acceptable. Now the standard calls for the plumage colour of both sexes to be 'deep cream or cream'. In America, the Pekin became the producer of high-class table ducklings, and in Britain it is also renowned for its utility qualities, and competed with the Aylesbury. With its upright stance and chunky appearance, the Pekin is an attractive breed. It is also generally very hardy, a good forager, and quite vigorous. The best specimens regularly take prizes at shows. Classified as a 'Heavy' breed, it can attain a weight of 9lbs.

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