[RichardA]

I need to replace four aging and very large somewhat unproductive aylesburys we got as a rescue. I am considering either campbells or runners as the eggs are the important thing for us. I think with the hut space, the pond and the outside grassy run space we have that has always been more than enough for the 4 aysleburys then upto 6 campbells or 6 runners would be comfortable. In terms of eggs and ease of care does anyone have experience of campbells versus runners please.
Many thanks
R

[Kate and her Ducks]

I'm not a huge fan if Campbells. Very nervy, even the ones I raised from egg wouldn't have anything to do with me once adult unlike all my others. They also never lived up to their laying reputation but
maybe I just got dud ones! Welsh harlequins are closely related and lay well and mine are much friendlier. Also in my opinion, prettier.

I've no experience of runners but would love them for the blue eggs 

[Hayley'sHens]

Kate, Is that right runner lay blue eggs? Any colour runner or just runners in general?

[Kathie]

We bought fertile Indian Runner eggs that were blue, we now have 9 6 week old runners. They are a variety of colours, black, white and greyish

[EJCTM]

I would say get some runners, but that is because I have them and I am biased!

They are great fun, friendly (but not cuddly, but then most ducks aren't) and I have heard they are prolific layers. Mine are a bit young for that yet.

The egg colour depends on the colour of the feathers. The black and I think the blue runners lay greenish/bluish tinted eggs. I know this because I hatched one of them that was this colour, and the breeder also said it was her black duck that laid it - sure enough the duckling inside was black too. The others lay white ones. There is probably more to this that an expert can chip in and add (not me!)

I chose to get runners because of 2 things - firstly the number of eggs as I wanted a year round supply and not seasonal, and secondly I just loved their upright silhouette as it was so different from the heavy waddling of most other ducks. They are also not known to be super noisy, which was a factor for the neighbours. Also, (actually fourthly!) they are not known to be broody ducks which suits me.

Let us know what you decide!

Pics of mine below - no apologies for the blatant excuse to show off my duckies, lol!!

[RichardA]

must admit I like them too for the way they look and act, a comical elegence perhaps.
Thanks for the comments
R