What are the characteristics of Muscovy ducks?

Muscovy ducks are suitable for raising in the southern provinces of China. Muscovy ducks grow fast, have a large body weight, and good meat quality. Muscovy ducks are good at flying but not at swimming, and are suitable for confined housing, laying 60 to 120 eggs per year. The period of vigorous growth for Muscovy ducks is around 10 to 11 weeks of age; at 3 months of age, male ducks weigh 2.7 kg and female ducks 1.8 kg, with a feed-to-weight ratio of 3.2 to 1. The eviscerated carcass yield is 74% to 75%, higher than that of Pekin ducks. The hybrid offspring of Muscovy ducks and domestic ducks are excellent commercial meat ducks and fatty liver ducks. However, artificial assistance in mating is generally required.