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Ducks

Ducks, part of the Anatidae family, have a history dating back millions of years, with domestication beginning around 2000 BC in Southern China. They have served various roles throughout history, including agricultural benefits in rice farming and cultural symbolism in ancient societies. Today, ducks are significant for food production and are also kept as pets and ornamental birds.

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2 views1 page

Ducks

Ducks, part of the Anatidae family, have a history dating back millions of years, with domestication beginning around 2000 BC in Southern China. They have served various roles throughout history, including agricultural benefits in rice farming and cultural symbolism in ancient societies. Today, ducks are significant for food production and are also kept as pets and ornamental birds.

Uploaded by

mdeenyale
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Ducks, belonging to the family Anatidae, have a rich history spanning

millions of years, with ancestors potentially dating back to the Cretaceous


period. Domestication, primarily from mallards, occurred in Southern China
around 2000 BC, with the earliest written records appearing around 500
BC. Ducks have played various roles throughout history, from symbols in
ancient cultures to integral parts of agricultural systems and even popular
poultry.

Here's a more detailed look at the history of ducks:


 Ancient Origins:
Ducks are a very old group of birds, with fossil evidence suggesting their existence
for at least 25 million years. Their ancestors lived alongside dinosaurs.
 Domestication:
Domestication likely began in Southern China with rice farmers. This process
involved selective breeding for traits like docility, faster growth, and increased egg
production.
 Early Uses:
In ancient Egypt, ducks were revered as symbols of fertility and renewal. In China,
they were associated with fidelity and marital harmony. Duck farming for meat and
eggs was widespread in Southeast Asia.
 Agricultural Importance:
Ducks proved particularly useful in rice-growing regions, where they helped control
insects, snails, and weeds in flooded paddies while also fertilizing the water.
 Spread and Diversity:
From their origins, duck domestication spread to other parts of the world. Today,
most domestic duck breeds are descendants of the wild mallard, though the
Muscovy duck was domesticated independently in Mexico and South America.
 Modern Role:
Ducks continue to be important for food production, but they are also kept as pets
and ornamental birds.

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