The Lucky Ducklings
In the spring of 2017, we got a call from the Ulster County SPCA asking for our help regarding a duck hoarding and neglect case in Woodstock, NY. A group of full-grown ducks were being held in a backyard covered in filth. There were no coops, shelters, or access to water, so the ducks were completely exposed to the elements and predators.
Inside the house, a small wire cage with malnourished and dehydrated ducklings was found – they were forced to live under a large lamp with no way to escape the heat. Their only source of nourishment was a makeshift feeder with barely any food or water in it. Thankfully, we were able to help, and suddenly there were ten ducklings at Woodstock Sanctuary.
When the ducklings arrived, they were nervous and huddled together as a group. But as they discovered clean food and water, learning they were safe, they broke out of their shells and started peeping with joy, splashing around and snuggling up to the caregivers.
Watch below as they took their first steps into their new home.
It is most likely that this little group was shipped from a hatchery at just a few days old to be raised for human consumption – but now they get to live their full lives safe in sanctuary. The ten Lucky Ducklings are: Winnie, Eeyore, Tigger, Roo, Kanga, Charlotte, Wilbur, Templeton, Ferdinand, and Horton!
Templeton, Tigger, Wilbur, Winnie, Eeyore, and Horton have sadly passed away since the rescue, but they live on in the remaining Lucky Ducklings.
The Lucky Ducklings when they just arrived at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary.
The Lucky Ducklings enjoying some pool time.