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The domestic Crested Duck is a duck breed descended from the Mallard. It has its appearance because it is heterozygous for a genetic mutation causing a deformity of the skull. (wikipedia)
"The crest is formed from a mass of fatty tissue that emerges through a gap in the cranium.( skull) From this, feathers grow. Crests vary from centrally placed, full crests, rather like powder puffs, to knobbly protuberances with just a few feathers; or the occasional earring when it has 'slipped'. The crested gene can be bred into any breed except Muscovy..." (The Domestic Waterfowl Club of Great Britain; http://www.domestic-waterfowl.co.uk/cres...)
Spotted on Jun 10, 2012
Submitted on Jun 10, 2012
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