Runner ducks originate from the East Indies. They are slim with a tall stance and the recognized varieties are black, white, buff, grey and chocolate, however there are many other colors. Runner ducks have been used to develop many other breeds, such as the Khaki Campbell and Abacot Ranger.

The female ducks are good layers and produce around 200 eggs per year. They are good foragers and are very effective as organic pest control. Runner ducks are hardy and easy to care for. Being active, they do need room to exercise and they tend to run rather than waddle.

They tend to have a timid temperament, although they can become tame when used to human company. They do not spend much time on water and a shallow tray is all they need to be happy, although they do appreciate larger pools. Mature males weigh around 2.3 kg and the females 2 kg.