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Khaki Campbell

The Khaki Campbell is the world's most prolific duck egg layer - 250-340 eggs per year per hen, more than any chicken breed. Light frame, active foragers, calm temperament. The 'egg machine' of ducks.

About this breed

Quick facts: Khaki Campbell

OriginGloucestershire, England - 1898 by Adele Campbell
APA recognized1941
Conservation statusCommon
Adult weightDrakes 4.5 lb, Hens 4 lb
Size classLight
Eggs per year~280
Egg colorWhite (occasionally tinted)
Egg sizeExtra Large
BroodinessLow
Cold hardinessExcellent
Heat toleranceGood
Noise levelQuiet
Flight tendencyStrong flier (must wing-clip or net)
Beginner friendlyYes

History & origin

Adele Campbell of Gloucestershire, England, crossed Indian Runner (egg production) x Rouen (table quality) x Mallard (vigor) in the 1890s to create the world's best laying duck. The 'khaki' color came later when she crossed her line with Penciled Runner ducks. APA-recognized 1941. Most-kept egg-laying duck in the world. Significantly outlay any chicken breed except high-production Leghorn hybrids.

Personality & temperament

activeforagingcalmdocile

Best for: eggs, foraging, small farm, pond keepers

Eggs & laying

Lay year-round including winter. Eggs 30% bigger than chicken eggs.

Husbandry & care

Indoor coop space4 sq ft per bird
Run space15 sq ft per bird

Space: Need water deep enough to submerge head - a kiddie pool works. No actual swimming pond required for laying.

Feeding: Layer feed 16-18% protein. Add niacin (3% of feed) - ducks need it more than chickens.

Health: Niacin deficiency causes leg weakness. Add brewer's yeast to feed.

Climate: Zones 3-10. Cold-hardy down to 0F with dry bedding.

Buying tips

  • Drakes are slightly darker than hens; both are khaki-colored.
  • Hens lay 280+ eggs/year. Drakes will mate any hen - 1 drake per 4-5 hens is correct.
  • Day-old ducklings ship USPS in groups of 10+. Use poultry shavings, not cedar.
  • Hatching eggs ship well - hatch rate 70-85% with proper incubation.

Did you know?

  • World's most prolific egg-laying duck.
  • Lay through winter with no drop-off (unlike chickens).
  • Eggs are richer than chicken eggs - 30% more fat in the yolk, popular with bakers.
  • Will not sit on their own eggs - use a broody chicken or incubator.

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