Key Characteristics

As its name suggests, the Hook bill differs from all other domestic descendants of the mallard in that the bill is curved downwards, so that the upper neck, head and long bill describe a semicircle.

There are three forms are standardised in the UK, the dusky mallard, the white bibbed and the white. 

History

As its name suggests, the Hook bill differs from all other domestic descendants of the mallard in that the bill is curved downwards, so that the upper neck, head and long bill describe a semicircle.

Three forms are standardised in the UK and in the USA – the dusky mallard, the white bibbed and the white.

The breed was previously popular as an egg producer and meat bird, and became widely distributed throughout Europe in the nineteenth century. However as chicken eggs became more popular during the 20th Century the breed declined.

Breed Societies

For more information visit the British Waterfowl Association.