British standard 600-700 g drakes and 500-600 g ducks; Wikipedia gives 800-900 g and 700-800 g. Metzer Farms lists 1-2 lb (about 0.45-0.9 kg) and Oklahoma State University says 40 oz (about 1.1 kg) or less.
The smallest domestic duck, with a round, compact body, a short neck, a small round head with big cheeks and a very short bill. The overall look is often called cute or toy-like.12
Lively, chatty little ducks that are often kept purely as pets and are popular with children because they are small and easy to tame. The ducks have a loud, high-pitched call that carries a long way, while drakes are much quieter, so they suit homes without close neighbours.132
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Unlike most domestic ducks, Calls fly well, so keepers usually net the run or trim the flight feathers of one wing, especially while the birds settle into a new home.34
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Ducks keep their feathers in order themselves by preening and bathing, so the main job is supplying clean water: drinkers deep enough for a duck to dip its whole head, and a pool or tub for bathing. Keep bedding dry and change it often, and stop runs from turning into deep mud. Because they are so small, water containers and ponds should be shallow enough for them to climb in and out easily.63
Home where they are happiest
A dry, well-ventilated and predator-proof house with roughly 0.4-0.55 m2 (4-6 sq ft) of floor per duck, plus a secure outdoor run with grass if possible. Sturdy fencing, fine hardware mesh, fencing sunk a little into the ground and overhead netting all help keep the flock safe. A covered or netted run is useful because Call ducks can fly.63
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete commercial waterfowl feed as the base, with leafy greens, other vegetables and the odd protein treat such as mealworms. Keep avocado, chocolate, onion, garlic, nightshade plants and mouldy food away from them, and always offer fresh water alongside food.6
Company who they like around
A flock bird that should live with at least two or three other ducks. If drakes are kept, about one drake to four or more ducks keeps the group settled.6
The story where it all began
Dutch duck-trappers kept these small, loud ducks in the 1600s to call wild ducks into decoy traps, which gave the breed its name. They reached Britain by the mid-1800s, appeared in the first British poultry standard in 1865 and in the first American standard in 1874, and today they are kept mainly for shows and as pets.132
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The name comes from the carrying call of the ducks, which hunters once used to lure wild ducks into traps.1
2
Call ducks were one of only four duck breeds in the very first British poultry standard of 1865.1
3
They are among the few domestic ducks that fly really well.3
4
The Entente Européenne standard recognises nineteen different Call duck colours.1
Recognised by the official bits
American Poultry Association (APA)
Grey and White varieties in the first Standard of Perfection (1874); six more colours were added between 1977 and 2007.1
British Waterfowl Standards / Poultry Club of Great Britain
In Tegetmeier's first British poultry standard of 1865, later dropped and brought back in 1971; 17 colours recognised in the 2008 standards.3
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Call Duck?
Offer fresh food and water daily. Furry Diary's starting plan is to provide a complete waterfowl feed every day, along with fresh water deep enough for the duck to dip its whole head. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.6Pet Wiki plan
What does a Call Duck eat, and what should it never eat?
Feed a complete commercial waterfowl feed as the base, plus leafy greens, other vegetables, and occasional protein treats like mealworms. Never give avocado, chocolate, onion, garlic, nightshade plants, or mouldy food, and always have fresh water available.6
How much space does a Call Duck need?
Provide a dry, predator-proof house with about 0.4-0.55 m² (4-6 sq ft) per duck, plus a secure outdoor run with grass if possible. Sturdy fencing, fine mesh, and overhead netting are important since Call ducks can fly.63
What temperature, light or water does a Call Duck need?
Call ducks need a dry, well-ventilated house and a safe outdoor run. They require clean water deep enough to dip their whole head and a shallow pool or tub for bathing. Temperature needs vary; ask a vet who sees poultry for specific guidance.63
How often should I clean a Call Duck's home?
Spot-clean the house daily and do a full clean every two weeks, as suggested in Furry Diary's plan. Keep bedding dry and change it often, and prevent the run from turning into deep mud.6Pet Wiki plan
Can a Call Duck live with others?
Yes, Call ducks are flock birds and should live with at least two or three other ducks. If you keep drakes, aim for about one drake to four or more ducks to keep the group settled.6
How long does a Call Duck live?
Call ducks typically live between 8 and 12 years with good care. Their lifespan can vary, so regular vet check-ups help ensure a long, healthy life.5
Can I handle a Call Duck?
Yes, Call ducks are lively, chatty, and easy to tame, making them popular with children. They can be handled gently, but always supervise interactions to keep both the duck and handler safe.132
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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