In a delightful yet concerning turn of events, a Cayuga duck named Buddy has made Lake Summerside in south Edmonton his temporary haven. However, local residents are aware that this domestic duck’s stay is not sustainable, especially with winter fast approaching. Community members are now striving to secure a safer environment for Buddy, who arrived at the man-made lake three months ago.
A Duck Out of Place
Buddy, easily recognised by his striking dark green head and iridescent blue sheen, does not belong to the natural wildlife of Alberta. He first appeared at Lake Summerside, a picturesque area in the southeast part of Edmonton, where he quickly became a local favourite. Kim Livingston, the office manager at the Lake Summerside Residents Association, noted his apparent health and happiness. “He seems pretty happy, he seems pretty healthy,” she remarked, adding, “He’s a big boy.”
The situation took a troubling turn when Buddy became entangled in a fishing lure. Concerned for his welfare, Livingston reached out to Wild North, a local wildlife rescue organisation, hoping they could provide assistance. “I called and asked Wild North if they would take him, as I was concerned about the hook in his bill,” she explained.
The Reality of Buddy’s Situation
Upon reviewing photos of Buddy, Wild North informed Livingston that they could not intervene since he is a domestic duck. Originally bred in New York State between the 1830s and 1850s, Cayuga ducks are a mix of wild black ducks and Rouens, known for their hardiness. However, Buddy faces a dire challenge: he cannot fly and, as the winter months approach, is ill-equipped to survive the harsh Alberta climate.
“He can’t take off from here, so he’s stuck,” Livingston said. “Not only will he not survive in the winter without shelter, but even though he’s foraging in the lake, he’s not getting the proper nutrition.” Although Livingston and fellow residents have been providing Buddy with waterfowl food three times daily, it is merely a stopgap measure.
Finding a New Home for Buddy
Fortunately, a potential solution is on the horizon. A new owner has been identified who already has other ducks and geese, creating a more suitable environment for Buddy. However, convincing him to leave his current home is proving to be a challenge. Livingston shared their difficulties in catching Buddy, stating, “We spent about two hours trying to catch him. He outsmarted us every time.”
To facilitate Buddy’s relocation, an expert bird catcher has been enlisted to assist in the task over the weekend. Until then, residents and visitors to Lake Summerside are urged to respect Buddy’s space and allow him to remain undisturbed.
Community Spirit Shines Through
The efforts to assist Buddy highlight the community’s compassion and commitment to animal welfare. Local residents are coming together to ensure that this domestic duck finds a safe and suitable home, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental responsibility even within urban spaces.
Why it Matters
Buddy’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and wildlife welfare. As urban development continues to encroach upon natural habitats, instances like Buddy’s underscore the importance of fostering environments where domestic and wild species can coexist. The community’s dedication to ensuring Buddy’s wellbeing not only represents an act of kindness but also a broader call to action to protect the vulnerable amidst changing landscapes.