03/19/2026
Hey everyone! I’ve gathered eggs from all my bantams and started putting them into the incubator in batches.
The first ones to hatch will be Call ducks and my other bantam breeds right behind them! But first, here is some info on the Call duck breed and why I highly suggest them!
Call ducks may be tiny in size, but they come with a fascinating and somewhat mysterious history. Their exact origins are still debated, but many historians believe they were first bred in the Netherlands several centuries ago.
Early records suggest that similar small ducks were kept by hunters, not for their eggs or meat, but for their voices.
In fact, the name “Call Duck” comes from their original purpose. These ducks were used as live decoys. Hunters would place them near wild duck feeding areas or waterways. Thanks to the females’ loud, persistent calls, they could lure wild ducks closer, making it easier for hunters to trap or shoot them. By
the 1800s, Call Ducks had made their way to the United Kingdom, where they became popular among ornamental poultry breeders. Their charming appearance and chatty personalities made them instant favorites at exhibitions.
Today Call ducks are kept primarily as pets and show birds rather than hunting aids. Their popularity has soared thanks to their adorable looks, compact size, and social nature, but their voice still pays tribute to the breed’s unique working past.
Call Ducks are classified as bantams, and their small size is one of their most defining traits:
Females: typically weigh between 1.25–1.5 lbs (570–680 g)
Males: slightly larger, around 1.5–2 lbs (680–900 g)
The most defining behavioral trait of Call Ducks is their voice. Hens, in particular, are famously loud and talkative. Their name originates from this trait. If you’re looking for a quiet backyard bird, Call Ducks aren’t the right choice. But if you enjoy a chatty companion and don’t mind a little noise, their constant communication can be endearing.
These ducks are extremely social. They bond closely with each other and with their humans. A single Call Duck may become lonely or stressed without a companion, so it’s best to keep them in pairs or small groups. They tend to be more outgoing than some of the larger duck breeds, often coming up to people for treats or attention, especially if they were handled frequently from a young age.
I’ve experienced this first hand with my Calls, they are talkative, loving, and what they lose in size they make up for in personality.
When I first got mine I was concerned with the size, and worried they would get bullied by my flock. But let me tell you! The day you watch a tiny little Call boss and chase a male turkey around your own front yard you know they can handle themselves! 😂
I should have 8 hatching in 3 days, I cannot promise that I won’t end up losing some in the meantime. But I eagerly am awaiting hatch time!
Pictures of parents included.
