Australian Spotted Ducks

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 Australian Spotted ducks are an endangered bantam breed that essentially ranks the very best across all categories.  They are exceptionally hardy, enthusiastic foragers, lay lots of delicious eggs, have great mothering ability (some of these ducklings' moms are currently sitting on nests or have just hatched their own babies), and are full of spunk and zest for life. 

"Along with their diminutive size and delightful plumage, Australian Spotteds have proven to be personable, and long-lived. They are exceptionally hardy and are outstanding foragers, and the females – along with those of the Miniature Silver Appleyards—are the best layers of the Bantam breeds. Their cream, blue, or green eggs hatch into lively ducklings that display a tremendous zest for life. They are the quickest-maturing breed I have observed. Sometimes, thee- to four-week-old drakelets engage in courtship displays that I have not observed in other breeds until at least twice that age. We have had ducks commence laying at just over three months of age.
Because of the rarity of the Australian Spotted, their future in tenuous. They merit being saved, not only for their wonderful aesthetics and personality but also for their many practical attributes."

-"Storey's Guide to Raising Ducks" by Dave Holderread .