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The ducks appear quite happy at Eva's Farm. (submitted/Austin Atchison)
Ducks

All grown up: daycare ducks move to winter retreat

Oct 10, 2024 | 10:00 AM

A flock of ducks which helped create excitement last spring at a number of daycares across Prince Albert, and spent the summer greeting visitors to Memorial Gardens with a cheerful honking sound, have now packed their bags and moved to a winter retreat.

Eva’s farm is located outside the city and Eva, who has a deep love for animals, said the ducks have been a fantastic addition to her farmstead.

“They’re such a joy to care for,” she shared. “We’ve set up a heated barn for them, so they’ll be nice and warm all winter long.”

The ducks have grown a lot since last May. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)
The duck lauch in June is always an emotional event. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

The ducks are already settling in, and their new environment is a far cry from the cold Saskatchewan weather. Not only are they being well cared for, but they’re also contributing to the farm’s daily life in a meaningful way. The ducks have started laying eggs, and Eva has been putting them to good use.

“We’ve been using their eggs for baking, and it’s been wonderful,” Eva said. “My family and friends love the fresh baked goods, and the ducks are part of that now.”

As for Prince Albert Memorial Gardens, which organizes the annual program for youth, the team is thrilled that the ducks have found such a loving home for the winter.

“It’s always wonderful to know that they are well taken care of,” says Austin Atchison, a representative of the Gardens. “They bring a lot of happiness here during the season, and knowing they’re in good hands during the colder months is heartwarming.”

The duck program has been running for over 25 years and provides local children with a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on experiences that foster compassion, care, and an appreciation for nature.

Pairs of ducks are distributed in May to participating day cares and among the first responsibilities have as caregivers is to name the ducks. Popular names in the past have included “Rainbow”, “Mario and Luigi”; and “Cheese and Quackers.”

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell