Quirky Quacks...
Is There A Doctor In The House?
Farmyards are fully diverse and integrated communities. They are societies in which different species of animals play differing, varying, and interesting roles. The animals of Stony Kreek Farm are no different. One such instance is that of our resident "doctors." Yes, our ducks are the physicians of the barnyard. They walk around consulting with one another quacking to themselves and at the other animals. Ducks are very social creatures and are known for their intelligence. We own a total of 3 ducks: 2 Pekin hens and 1 Khaki Campbell Drake. (male)
The Pekin duck originally came from China. It is a member of the Mallard family. The Pekin is best known for its meat and docile temperament. It lays up to 200 eggs per year. When you buy a duck in the grocery store it is most likely a butchered Pekin.
The Khaki Campbell is a hybrid of several breeds. They originated in Great Britain over 100 years ago. A woman named Adel Campbell crossed Mallards, Rouens, and Indian Runner ducks to produce the breed that is named for her. (WWW.Wikipedia.com) They are docile in temperament and are known for their laying ability. The Khaki Campbell is known to lay up to 300 eggs a year.
Day begins early at Stony Kreek Farm. Fritz, the Appenzeller Spitzhaben rooster, awakens everyone and everything at 5 am. Soon thereafter, you can hear a very loud "quack!"
Our 2 Pekins are called "Peekaboo" and "Skipper." The Khaki Campbell is affectionately known as "Little Buddy." We named the two for the characters on "Gilligan's Island." Peekaboo was named because she slants her head to 1 side as if to say "Peekaboo, I see you!!"
The doctors walk around the yard and visit all the animals. Once in front of a group or coop, they circle one another and quack at each other. They will often flap their wings at a situation or at the other barnyard creatures. We call this part of the day, the "consult."
The most fun part of the day is the feeding of all animals. We feed each group separately. The "doctors" was watch with interest as the other animals finish their food and then make "follow-up" visits to collect their "fees." Yes, they collect food from the leftovers from the other animals.
"Qqqquuuuaaack, quack, quack," breaks the silence as the end of the day approaches.
Often, I will yell "Doctors!!" They start quacking to themselves and start making their way to their enclosure.
Ducks are the prescription for a good time and alternative for those of us allergic to chicken eggs. If one is allergic to chicken eggs, that person should not be allergic to duck eggs. I have enjoyed french toast for the first time in my life.
All in all, a duck is a great prescription for good entertainment, food, and life. Take it from our doctors, "We're all we're 'quacked' up to be."
So get yourselves some ducks!! You won't regret the purchase. They are worth their weight in gold.