We are saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Mallard Duck, Kaczka.
In 2012, in Sicklerville, NJ, an adult Mallard walked up to some people sitting on their porch and started ‘quacking’ at them. He did not shy away from them and in fact seemed very friendly towards them. They immediately knew there was something different about this Mallard Duck. Looking for help, they contacted Cedar Run and were advised to bring it to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Hospital.
Kaczka is what is known as imprinted. Imprinting is a form of learning in which an animal gains its sense of species identification. If an animal such as a Mallard is hatched and raised among humans, it will begin to identify with humans. This is believed to be what happened to Kaczka. It is unknown the exact circumstances but it is believed Kaczka was a wild duck raised by humans who was either let go into the wild or escaped. Either way, Kaczka was unable to survive on his own in the wild because he did not exhibit the necessary fear and instincts that wild ducks possess.
Cedar Run became his permanent home, where he taught Cedar Run’s caretakers, staff, volunteers, and the public, about so many things. Including the importance about imprinting and keeping wildlife wild, about his species and Waterfowl, and that your best friend is actually yourself (as he was very fond of his mirror in his enclosure). He had a lot to say and most visitors heard him “talking” in his lake-front enclosure, admiring his reflection in his favorite mirror, or taking a bath in his water bowl. Our staff and volunteers will miss Kaczka beyond measure, after 11 years with him being a loved Wildlife Ambassador at Cedar Run. Kaczka, you will be forever missed. ❤
If you have any photos or videos you would like to share with us, our team would love to see them as we take a moment to remember how much joy he brought to all.
Share on our social media (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) or email [email protected]
