In a heartwarming yet concerning tale from south Edmonton, a Cayuga duck named Buddy has made Lake Summerside his temporary home, prompting local residents and wildlife advocates to rally for his rescue. After appearing at the man-made lake three months ago, Buddy has become a well-known figure among the community, but his presence raises significant concerns about his long-term survival, especially as winter approaches.
An Unexpected Visitor
Buddy first caught the attention of locals in the Summerside neighbourhood when he arrived at the lake, seemingly content. Kim Livingston, office manager for the Lake Summerside Residents Association, commented on Buddy’s health, noting, “He seems pretty happy, he seems pretty healthy. He’s a big boy.” However, the cheerful facade was soon overshadowed by a troubling incident when Buddy became ensnared in a fishing lure.
Livingston, concerned for the duck’s well-being, reached out to Wild North, a local wildlife rescue organisation, to inquire about assistance. “I called and asked Wild North if they would take him, as I was concerned about the hook in his bill,” she recounted. Unfortunately, the response was disheartening; the rescue team informed her that they could not help as Buddy is a domestic duck.
The Species and Its Challenges
Buddy is a Cayuga duck, a breed originating in New York between the 1830s and 1850s, developed from wild black ducks, the Black East India, and Rouens. While the Cayuga is known for its resilience to cold conditions, Alberta’s severe winters pose a significant threat to Buddy’s survival, especially as he is unable to fly. “He can’t take off from here, so he’s stuck,” Livingston explained. “Not only will he not survive in the winter without shelter, but he’s also not getting the proper nutrition, even though he’s foraging in the lake.”
Currently, Buddy is being provided with waterfowl food three times a day, but this is merely a stopgap measure until a more permanent solution can be implemented.
Rescue Efforts in Motion
The community’s commitment to Buddy’s welfare has led to the identification of a new owner who has other ducks and geese, presenting hope for Buddy’s future. However, the immediate challenge lies in convincing him to leave the lake. Despite attempts to catch him, Buddy has proven to be elusive. “We spent about two hours trying to catch him. He outsmarted us every time,” Livingston lamented.
To enhance the chances of a successful rescue, an expert bird catcher is scheduled to assist over the upcoming weekend. Meanwhile, residents and visitors to Lake Summerside are urged to give Buddy the space he needs during this critical time.
Why it Matters
The plight of Buddy the duck underscores the complex relationship between urban development and wildlife, particularly in rapidly growing areas like Edmonton. While Buddy’s story captivates hearts, it also highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and the impact of domestic animals on local ecosystems. As communities continue to expand, ensuring the welfare of both wildlife and domestic animals becomes imperative, reminding us all of our shared responsibility to protect the natural world.