Why We Keep Getting Male Pekin Ducks — And Why It Breaks Our Hearts
We don’t set out to adopt male Pekin ducks. But somehow, it always happens. A neighbor or rescue contacts us: “We have some Pekins — want them?” We say yes, because we can’t look away. Then the heartbreak starts. Here’s the thing: Pekin ducks are bred for meat. Their genetics push them to grow very quickly, put on bulk fast, and not necessarily maintain structural integrity long term. That often leads to joint problems, leg issues, and early mobility decline — especially in drakes (male Pekins). So we end up with these handsome white birds that don’t have the physical capability to live long, comfortable lives. And because so many amateur breeders simply wash their hands of them if they become aggressive or they end up with too many, the burden often falls on sanctuaries like our. And then, in these cases, we are the ones forced to make the hardest decision: euthanasia. The Biology Behind the Problem Pekins are heavy birds, bred to reach butcher weight in a short period. Their size is...
