Orpington duck farming is popular for both meat and eggs production, because it is a very good dual-purpose breed. The breed is known for both of it’s beauty and utility and it is also known as ‘Buff Orpington duck’.
The Orpington duck breed was actually created by the famous poultry breeder ‘William Cook’ of Orpington, Kent, United Kingdom. William Cook was also the developer of the Orpington Chicken, which is also a popular dual-purpose chicken breed.
The Orpington duck variety was created from the selection of mis-marked Blue Orpington ducks, and there was also a a White variety of this breed but that never gained popularity.
The Buff variety actually developed by blending Aylesbury, Cayuga, Runner and Rouen ducks. And the breed was first introduced to the public in October 1897 at the Dairy Show, the Agricultural Hall (q.v.), Islington, London.
Today, the Orpington duck is available in three color varieties namely Brown, Buff and Blond. But the Buff variety is much popular and other varieties are rare today.
However, as these ducks are wonderful dual-purpose birds, so commercial Orpington duck farming can be a good business idea for both meat and eggs production.
These ducks are very strong, hardy and productive and they are very good for both meat and eggs production. They are also good for the hobby farmers, mainly for their beauty.
How to Start Orpington Duck Farming Business
The Orpington ducks are very strong and hardy birds. So, starting commercial Orpington duck farming business is relatively easy and simple. It’s just like starting a duck farming business with any other domestic duck breeds.
Here we are trying to describe more information about starting and operating a successful Orpington duck farming business from purchasing birds to caring and marketing.
Purchase Ducks
First of all, you have to purchase very good quality, healthy and disease free ducks from any of your nearest duck breeding centers or existing Orpington duck farms.
You can start Orpington duck farming business either with ducklings or with mature ducks. You can also search your local online classified websites for purchasing ducks.
Housing
Like many other domestic duck breeds, the Orpington ducks generally don’t require elaborate housing facilities for living. Just a basic housing system will be good for them. Just ensure the house is comfortable and safe for the birds.
While making the house, install good ventilation system and ensure flow of sufficient amount of fresh air and light inside the house. And try to make the house in such a way so that you can easily clean the house. The Orpington ducks are classed as a medium sized breed. So, 5-6 square feet housing space per bird will be enough.
Feeding
Feeding the birds with good quality and nutritious food is the most important part of Orpington duck farming business. So, always try to feed your ducks with enough good and nutritious foods as per their demand.
You can feed them either with ready-made/commercial duck feed or poultry feed depending on the availability in your area. And always provide them with enough clean and fresh water as per their demand.
Breeding
Like many other domestic duck breeds, the Orpington ducks are also naturally very good breeders. So, you don’t have to worry much about their breeding.
Just keeping good ratio of male and female ducks will be enough for successful breeding results. Generally one mature male duck is enough for breeding 8-10 female ducks.
Caring
Additional caring is required for successful Orpington duck farming business along with feeding them with good quality feeds and arranging a good housing system for them. So always try to take good care of them. Vaccinate them timely and always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
Marketing
Duck products (both meat and eggs) have very good demand and value in the market. So you don’t have to think much about marketing, and you will probably be able to easily sell the products in your local market. Although you should set your marketing strategies before starting this business.
These are the common steps and ways for starting and operating a successful Orpington duck farming business. Hope this guide has helped you! Good luck & may God bless you!
