Buddy the Cayuga duck has become a familiar sight along the shores of Lake Summerside in south Edmonton, but the community is concerned that this is not where he belongs. The duck, recognised for his striking dark green head and iridescent blue sheen, has been living at the artificial lake in the Summerside neighbourhood for approximately three months. Local residents, including Kim Livingston, office manager of the Lake Summerside Residents Association, have noted that while Buddy appears healthy and content, he is, in fact, a domestic breed unfit for the harsh realities of Alberta’s winter.
A Duck Out of Water
Buddy made his appearance at Lake Summerside around three months ago, initially attracting little attention. However, his situation changed dramatically when he became ensnared in a fishing lure, prompting Livingston to reach out to Wild North, a local wildlife rescue organisation. “I called and asked Wild North if they could help, as I was concerned about the hook in his bill,” she explained. Unfortunately, after submitting photographs, she learned that they would not be able to assist him due to his status as a domestic duck.
Cayuga ducks, a breed developed in New York between the 1830s and 1850s, are known for their resilience in cold weather. Nonetheless, the brutal Alberta winters pose a significant threat to Buddy, particularly as he is unable to fly. “He can’t take off from here, so he’s stuck,” Livingston stated. “Not only will he not survive the winter without proper shelter, but he’s also not receiving adequate nutrition, even though he’s foraging in the lake.”
The Community Steps In
While local residents have been proactive in providing Buddy with food—specifically, waterfowl pellets three times a day—this is only a stopgap measure. In a bid to secure a better future for the duck, a new owner has been identified who has other ducks and geese, creating a more suitable environment for Buddy. However, the challenge now lies in persuading him to leave his current habitat.
Livingston shared the difficulties the community has faced in attempting to catch Buddy. “We spent about two hours trying to catch him. He outsmarted us every time,” she remarked, highlighting the duck’s cleverness as he evaded their efforts. To assist in this endeavour, an expert bird catcher is scheduled to arrive over the weekend, bringing hope that they will successfully relocate Buddy to his new home.
Respecting Buddy’s Space
As the community rallies around Buddy, residents and visitors to Lake Summerside are urged to respect his space. The local association hopes that with the right intervention, Buddy will be safely transitioned to a setting where he can thrive alongside other ducks, away from the dangers of winter in Alberta.
Why it Matters
The story of Buddy the duck serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between urban development and wildlife conservation. As communities continue to grow and alter natural habitats, it’s crucial to consider the well-being of displaced animals. Buddy’s plight shines a light on the responsibilities we hold towards domestic and wild animals alike, advocating for humane solutions in the face of ecological disruption. The efforts of the Lake Summerside community exemplify a commitment to environmental stewardship, illustrating how individuals can come together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of their local wildlife.