Buddy the Cayuga duck has made quite the impression on residents of Lake Summerside in south Edmonton, but his continued presence raises concerns about his well-being and future. After appearing at the man-made lake three months ago, Buddy has become a local attraction, with neighbours noting his robust health and spirited nature. However, as his story unfolds, it becomes clear that this domestic duck is far from home and in need of assistance.
A New Arrival
Buddy’s unexpected arrival in the Summerside neighbourhood has sparked curiosity among residents. According to Kim Livingston, office manager of the Lake Summerside Residents Association, “He seems pretty happy, he seems pretty healthy. He’s a big boy.” His striking appearance—characterised by a dark green head and an iridescent blue sheen—set him apart from the native species like mallards and northern pintails that typically inhabit the area.
Initially, Buddy’s presence was met with indifference, but that changed dramatically when he became entangled in a fishing lure. Concerned for the duck’s safety, Livingston 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.
Domestic Duck in Need
Wild North’s response revealed the challenges faced by domesticated ducks like Buddy. While they appreciated the concern, they informed Livingston that they were unable to assist him because he is not a wild duck. Originating from New York in the 19th century, the Cayuga duck is recognised for its resilience in colder temperatures, yet the harsh Alberta winters present a significant threat to Buddy, who lacks the ability to fly.
“He can’t take off from here, so he’s stuck,” Livingston remarked. “Not only will he not survive the winter without shelter, but he’s not getting the proper nutrition either.” Though he forages at the lake, it is insufficient to meet his dietary needs, further highlighting the urgency of the situation.
A Quest for Rehoming
Currently, Buddy is being fed waterfowl food three times daily as a stopgap measure. Fortunately, a new owner has been identified who has a suitable habitat with other ducks and geese, but the challenge now lies in convincing Buddy to leave his lakeside home.
Efforts to catch him have proven difficult; Livingston shared, “We spent about two hours trying to catch him. He outsmarted us every time.” To improve their chances, an expert bird catcher is scheduled to assist over the weekend, bringing hope that Buddy will soon transition to a more appropriate environment.
Meanwhile, residents enjoying the lake are urged to respect Buddy’s space during this critical time.
Why it Matters
Buddy’s story underscores the delicate balance between human interaction and wildlife welfare. As urban development encroaches on natural habitats, many domestic animals find themselves in unfamiliar environments. This incident not only highlights the need for community awareness and action towards displaced wildlife but also reflects broader environmental concerns as we navigate the complexities of cohabiting with nature. Ensuring Buddy’s safety and well-being is a crucial step in fostering a harmonious relationship between humans and the wildlife that inhabit our shared spaces.