Our best selling Tea Towel is our absolutely gorgeous Yellow Duck Tea Towel. Have you ever wondered why ducklings are yellow?
Why Do Yellow Ducklings Change Colour?
If you've ever seen fluffy yellow ducklings paddling in a pond, you’ve likely wondered why they start off so bright and cheerful, but end up looking very different as adult birds. The transformation is fascinating and completely natural!
Which Breeds Of Duck Change Colour?
Most domestic ducklings, particularly breeds like the Pekin duck, are born with yellow down feathers. This soft, yellow fluff serves as a form of insulation and helps them regulate their body temperature in the early stages of life. However, as ducklings grow, they begin to shed this down and develop their adult feathers, which are typically white, brown, or grey, depending on the breed.
When Do Ducklings Change Colour?
The timing of this colour change usually occurs between 5 to 8 weeks of age, as their down feathers are gradually replaced by more durable and weather-resistant adult feathers. The change in colour isn’t just cosmetic – adult feathers are stronger and better suited to protect ducks from the elements, such as wind and water.
Why Are Ducklings Yellow At Birth?
Why yellow at birth? It’s largely due to breeding. Domesticated ducks like the Pekin are bred for specific traits, including their distinct yellow down as ducklings. In the wild, ducklings usually hatch with more camouflaged colouring, like browns and greys, to help them blend into their surroundings and avoid predators.
So, while your adorable yellow ducklings may grow into elegant adult ducks with new colours, this transformation is an important part of their development, giving them the protection they need as they mature.
Are You Quackers?
Think of this next time you are drying the dishes with our very popular Tea Towel. If you don't have one yet, you must be quackers! Get yours today!
