Buddy the duck has found an unexpected home at Lake Summerside in south Edmonton, but this man-made lake isn’t his natural habitat. The Cayuga duck, known for his striking dark green head and iridescent blue sheen, has been residing at the lake for about three months. While locals have noted his cheerful disposition and robust health, concerns are growing about his long-term survival in the harsh Alberta winters.
A Concern for Buddy’s Well-Being
Kim Livingston, office manager at the Lake Summerside Residents Association, has been closely observing Buddy since he arrived. “He seems pretty happy, he seems pretty healthy,” Livingston remarked, adding, “He’s a big boy.” However, Buddy’s situation took a troubling turn when he became ensnared in a fishing lure, prompting Livingston to seek assistance from local wildlife rescue organisation Wild North.
Upon contacting them, she learned that they were unable to help, as Buddy is classified as a domestic duck. “They asked me to send pictures of him, so I did — and they told me they weren’t able to do anything for him, because he’s a domestic duck,” she explained.
Understanding Buddy’s Background
The Cayuga breed, from which Buddy hails, originated in New York State during the 1830s to 1850s. It was developed from the wild black duck, Black East India, and Rouen breeds. Though Cayugas are known for their hardiness and ability to withstand cold weather, Buddy faces a unique challenge. He lacks the ability to fly, which restricts his mobility and ability to find shelter.
Livingston expressed concern for Buddy’s future, stating, “He can’t take off from here, so he’s stuck. Not only will he not survive in the winter without shelter, I did read that even though he’s foraging in the lake, he’s not getting the proper nutrition.” Currently, Buddy is being fed waterfowl food three times daily, but this is merely a temporary fix.
The Challenge of Relocation
Fortunately, a new owner has been identified for Buddy, who has other ducks and geese to keep him company. However, convincing Buddy to leave his current watery abode presents its own set of challenges. Despite several attempts to catch him, Buddy has eluded capture, showcasing his cleverness. “We spent about two hours trying to catch him. He outsmarted us every time,” Livingston recounted with a sense of frustration.
To assist in the effort, an expert bird catcher is scheduled to visit Lake Summerside over the weekend. Residents and visitors are being encouraged to respect Buddy’s space during this time, allowing for a less stressful environment as efforts to relocate him commence.
Why it Matters
Buddy’s story highlights the delicate balance between human activity and wildlife welfare. As urban development continues to encroach upon natural habitats, it becomes increasingly vital to ensure that animals like Buddy receive the care and attention they need. The situation serves as a reminder of the responsibility humans have in protecting domestic and wild species alike, particularly in the face of environmental challenges. Finding a solution for Buddy is not just about relocating a duck; it is about fostering a community that values and respects wildlife in all its forms.
