Every morning and evening, a swarm of more than a thousand Indian Runner ducks embarks on their daily commute to the Vergenoegd Löw wine estate located in close proximity to Cape Town, South Africa. These hardworking ducks are not just any ordinary flock; they serve as dedicated employees of the winery, with one of the unique perks being a lavish lunch spread provided on-site. The quacking workforce indulges in a delectable buffet consisting of weeds, aphids, slugs, snails, and various other critters that pose a threat to the vineyards and surrounding crops. This ingenious approach to pest management effectively eradicates the need for harmful pesticides while simultaneously enriching the soil with the ducks’ natural fertilizer. This forward-thinking winery has strategically positioned its ducks in neat rows among the grapevines, showcasing a steadfast commitment to sustainable farming practices.
The Indian Runner duck, scientifically known as Anas platyrhynchos domesticus, is a breed of domestic duck distinguished by its slender physique, elongated neck, and streamlined head. With legs positioned further back towards their tails, these ducks stand upright resembling penguins and possess the unique ability to run rather than waddle, hence earning them the moniker of “runner” ducks. Despite their name, the origins of the Indian Runner ducks trace back to their importation to Britain from the Indonesian archipelago during the 1830s, a region historically referred to as the “East Indies.” Today, these versatile ducks can be found across the globe, adapting to various environments.
Indian Runner ducks typically weigh between 3 to 5 pounds and measure 20 to 30 inches tall, with males typically larger in size than females. Despite their relatively light weight, their wings are not suited for flight. These ducks commonly sport a light brown (fawn) and white plumage, although black, white, and chocolate brown variations are also prevalent. Female Indian Runners are prolific egg-layers, capable of producing up to 300 eggs annually, though they often lay their eggs haphazardly without nesting or incubating them. At Vergenoegd Löw, diligent farm workers collect these scattered eggs, placing them in incubators to hatch the next generation of Runner ducks.
The practice of utilizing ducks as a natural method of pest control dates back centuries, with Runner ducks assumed to have been employed in rice paddies across Asia for millennia. Known for their omnivorous diet and adept foraging skills, ducks prove instrumental in combating weeds and pests in agricultural settings. Among the various duck breeds renowned for their foraging abilities are Indian Runners, Muscovy ducks, Khaki Campbells, Mallards, and Ancona ducks, each contributing to effective pest management. Muscovy ducks, in particular, are noted for their penchant for devouring rodents such as voles and mice.
Indian Runner ducks stand out
