A domestic duck named Buddy has become a beloved fixture at Lake Summerside in south Edmonton, but his presence raises concerns about his well-being and survival. After appearing at the man-made lake three months ago, Buddy—identified as a Cayuga duck—has garnered local attention, especially following a scare when he became entangled in a fishing lure. Now, the local community is mobilising to ensure a safe relocation for the charming fowl.
Buddy’s Unexpected Arrival
Buddy made his debut at Lake Summerside about three months ago, much to the delight of local residents. Kim Livingston, office manager of the Lake Summerside Residents Association, remarked on Buddy’s apparent health and happiness. “He seems pretty happy, he seems pretty healthy,” she noted. However, it soon became evident that Buddy was not a native of the area, especially given his distinctive dark green head and iridescent blue sheen, characteristics that set him apart from the local wildlife.
The situation took a concerning turn when Buddy got caught in a fishing lure. Livingston quickly reached out to Wild North, a local wildlife rescue organisation, hoping they could assist. “I called and asked Wild North if they would take him, as I was concerned about the hook in his bill,” she explained. Unfortunately, the organisation informed her that they were unable to help, as Buddy is a domestic breed and not a wild duck.
The Challenges of Domestic Ducks
Cayuga ducks, which originated in New York State between the 1830s and 1850s, are known for their hardiness and adaptability to colder climates. However, Buddy’s limitations as a domestic duck pose significant risks, particularly with Alberta’s harsh winters on the horizon. “He can’t take off from here, so he’s stuck,” Livingston emphasised. The lack of shelter and proper nutrition could spell trouble for Buddy as the temperatures drop.
Despite efforts to provide for him, including feeding him waterfowl food three times daily, this is only a temporary fix. While Buddy has been foraging in the lake, he is not receiving the proper nutrition needed for his long-term health. “Not only will he not survive in the winter without shelter, but even though he’s foraging, he’s not getting the right food,” Livingston added.
A Community Mobilises for Buddy
Recognising the urgency of the situation, local residents have come together to find a suitable new home for Buddy. A new owner has been identified, someone who already has a flock of ducks and geese. However, the challenge remains: convincing Buddy to leave the lake. Livingston and community members have attempted to catch him, but he has proven to be elusive. “We spent about two hours trying to catch him. He outsmarted us every time,” she admitted, highlighting the bird’s cleverness.
To aid in this effort, an expert bird catcher is scheduled to assist this weekend. In the meantime, residents and visitors to Lake Summerside have been asked to respect Buddy’s space, allowing him the peace he needs during this transition.
Why it Matters
The story of Buddy the duck highlights the intersection of wildlife conservation and community engagement. It serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in rescuing and relocating domestic animals in urban settings. As the community rallies to support Buddy’s relocation, they not only demonstrate compassion for a wayward creature but also raise awareness about the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. The successful transition of Buddy to a safer environment could set a precedent for similar future rescues, reinforcing the importance of a collaborative approach to wildlife welfare in our increasingly urban landscapes.
