Introduction

As a unique species of duck, the mandarin duck has captured the attention of many bird enthusiasts around the world. While mandarin ducks can be identified by their colorful and elaborate plumage, they are also famous for their distinctively shaped bills. One such variety of mandarin duck is the "Pekingese" breed, also known as the "puffed-up nose" or "pom-pom" duck.

The Pekingese Breed

The Pekingese duck is a domesticated breed that originated in China. It is known for its distinctive nose which is shaped like an accordion or bellows. The nose of a Pekingese duck is typically larger and more bulbous in appearance than that of other varieties of mandarin ducks. This unique feature has earned the breed the nickname "puffed-up nose duck" or "pom-pom duck." There are three sub-varieties of Pekingese duck that have been recognized: the Silver Pekingese (grey and white), Pied Pekingese (black and white) and the Bronze Pekingese (brown and white).

The Indian Runner Duck

The Indian Runner Duck is a species of domesticated duck native to the Indian subcontinent. They are characterized by their upright posture and narrow bodies. While Indian Runner Ducks do not have the same bulbous nose as the Pekingese breed, they are sometimes mistaken for them due to their similar body shape. Indian Runner Ducks also come in different varieties, including the Fawn & White, White, and Black.

The Rouen Duck

The Rouen Duck is a domesticated breed that originated in France. It has a similar body shape to the Pekingese breed, but its nose is not as pronounced. Rouen Ducks are known for their plumage which resembles that of a Mallard duck. They are also significantly larger than other breeds of domesticated ducks and are often used for meat production. Rouen Ducks come in two different varieties: the standard Rouen and the "production" Rouen, which is bred for meat production.

Conclusion

While the Pekingese duck is known for its distinctive nose, there are other varieties of domesticated ducks that can be easily confused with this breed. The Indian Runner Duck and Rouen Duck both share similar body shapes, but do not have the same unique nose. As with other wildlife species, it is important to understand the different breeds of ducks to appreciate their unique characteristics and contributions to our environment.