Rescued ducks return to the pond
Published: July 5, 2007
Duck Buddies Committee Chair Sallye Sibbett with Bob and Cathy Anderson from Fur & Feathers Rescue and Rehabilitation welcomed some 100 men, women and children to the long-awaited release of eight ducks back to Ashley Pond on Saturday.
The Andersons rescued the domesticated mallards in December after the fountain broke and the water froze at Ashley Pond. Without water to wash down their food, the ducks were starving and dehydrating.
The Andersons nursed the flock back to health over the winter and brought them to the pond Saturday morning for the ceremonial release.
“We are happy to report the quack is back,” announced Sibbitt with a big smile. Area children were given the honor of opening each cage.
The crowd moved in close. The looks of pure joy on their faces contrasted with an overcast sky.
The first duck released flew low to the water, gliding in for a soft landing near the center of the pond. The remaining ducks waddled in pairs towards the water, plunked in and swam off to reacquaint themselves with their former home.
The crowd cheered. They applauded. Their delight so obvious as they observed Ashley Pond graced once again with ducks.
“It makes me feel great,” laughed Barbara DeMarsh. “I am so happy they were rescued - they are part of Los Alamos. I’m going to make more frequent walks here and count them.”
Art Cox expressed elation at the morning’s event.
“I had earlier thought the ducks were eaten by coyotes so I’m real pleased and I really enjoyed being here this morning,” he said.
Two visitors happened to get in on the morning’s excitement.
“We don’t live here and we feel great about this,” Pat Allen from Colorado said. “We got in yesterday and heard about this and think it is just wonderful.”
Her friend Judy Buck from California said, “We have been so struck by the friendly people in New Mexico, not just the hospitality people but everyone and this event is so great.”
County Councilor Robert Gibson said during a Saturday interview at PEEC that what happened to the ducks last winter was unfortunate. “But we are really happy this wonderful Los Alamos tradition is re-established today,” Gibson said.
The Duck Buddies Committee is comprised of volunteers who are going to watch over the flock and ensure their well-being.
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