In an unusual turn of events, a domestic Cayuga duck named Buddy has made the man-made Lake Summerside in south Edmonton his temporary home. However, as winter approaches, concerns are growing about his well-being and the challenges he faces in this unfamiliar environment. Local residents and wildlife advocates are now working to secure a safer future for Buddy, who has drawn both curiosity and compassion from the community.
Buddy’s Unlikely Arrival
Buddy appeared at Lake Summerside approximately three months ago, seemingly content and healthy, according to Kim Livingston, office manager of the Lake Summerside Residents Association. “He seems pretty happy, he seems pretty healthy,” she remarked, highlighting the duck’s robust physique. However, the initial charm of Buddy’s presence quickly became overshadowed by a critical incident when he became ensnared in a fishing lure.
Livingston, alarmed by the situation, reached out to Wild North, a local wildlife rescue organisation, for assistance. “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 could not assist Buddy due to his status as a domestic duck, which does not fall under their typical rescue parameters.
Understanding Buddy’s Background
Buddy is a Cayuga duck, a breed that was developed in New York State between the 1830s and 1850s. This breed is a cross between the wild black duck, the Black East India, and the Rouen, and is known for its hardiness in colder climates. However, despite this adaptation, Alberta’s severe winters pose a significant threat to Buddy, especially as he is unable to fly. “He can’t take off from here, so he’s stuck,” Livingston pointed out, emphasising the precariousness of his situation.
Moreover, while Buddy has been foraging in the lake, he is not receiving the optimal nutrition needed for his health. Livingston noted that he is being fed waterfowl food three times a day, but this is merely a stopgap solution. “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,” she added.
The Plan for Buddy’s Future
Fortunately, a new owner has been identified who has other ducks and geese, providing an opportunity for Buddy to integrate into a more suitable environment. However, convincing him to leave Lake Summerside has proven to be quite the challenge. Livingston and her team have attempted to catch Buddy but have met with little success. “We spent about two hours trying to catch him. He outsmarted us every time,” she recounted with a mix of frustration and admiration for the clever duck.
To facilitate the capture, an expert bird catcher is scheduled to assist over the upcoming weekend. Meanwhile, residents and visitors to Lake Summerside have been asked to respect Buddy’s space as efforts are made to relocate him safely.
Why it Matters
The story of Buddy the duck serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between wildlife and urban development. As cities expand and natural habitats are altered, animals like Buddy may find themselves in precarious situations far from home. This incident highlights the importance of community engagement in wildlife welfare, as residents rally to support a creature in need. Ensuring the safety and proper care of domesticated animals, as well as fostering awareness about urban wildlife, can help bridge the gap between our world and theirs, promoting a more harmonious coexistence.