Freckles the duck was left frightened and vulnerable until a kind community member discovered her and brought her to a safe place for help.
Farm animals are often seen as less deserving of lifelong commitment than traditional companion animals. Because of this, many unwanted animals are abandoned or face euthanasia. Those with deformities or disabilities are too often viewed as unworthy of the time, patience, and love they truly deserve.
Freckles was one of those animals.
She was found abandoned, and with limited natural survival instincts and a disability, her chances of surviving without human care were slim. Thankfully, a kind community member refused to look the other way. Freckles was rescued, taken to a vet and found her way into a loving foster home with us.
We may never know why she was abandoned. What we do know is that fate led her somewhere better – a place where she would be safe, loved, and cared for. A place where her worth is not measured by how she walks or whether she lays eggs.
Freckles may never know just how lucky she is, but she will know what safety feels like. She will know kindness. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, Freckles was able to go to one of our loving foster homes.
Now thriving, Freckles is looking for her forever home – a place where she will be cherished as a companion, not a commodity.
Keep reading to learn more about Freckles.
Freckles is a very pretty Silver Appleyard duck with a big personality who has captured our hearts. Found alone in a park, she was taken to a vet by a kind member of the public. Freckles has a deformity in one leg, likely a result of a fractured leg that healed incorrectly when she was a duckling. X-rays confirmed no current injuries or ongoing medical issues; it’s simply how her leg healed.
Freckles has adapted wonderfully to foster care. While she moves a bit slower on land, hopping along on her strong leg, she still explores her surroundings and keeps a close eye on everything. In the water, however, she’s in her element, gliding happily around the pond and enjoying a good swim.
Due to her mobility difference, Freckles needs a secure predator-proof home where she’s safe from foxes and other threats. A coop at night is essential. Freckles hasn’t been with other ducks while in foster care so a slow introduction will be especially important.
Freckles is delightful. She’s a bit shy at first, but happily accepts treats from your hand once she feels comfortable. She’s very expressive, especially when breakfast is delayed! You’ll know it’s time for her to eat.
Her favourite treats include mealworms, duck pellets, oats, seed mix, and grated carrot. She absolutely lights up when snack time arrives.
As a Silver Appleyard, Freckles has lovely colouring. In sunlight, her blue cross-stripe feathers shimmer with a beautiful iridescent sheen. Her namesake freckles on her bill are adorable.
Freckles can fly, but as a heavier breed of duck, her flying is low and short distances.
This special girl is looking for a caring home that appreciates her gentle nature and provides her with the safety she needs to thrive. In return, Freckles will bring charm, character, and plenty of cheerful quacks to the lucky family who adopts her.
If you think that you could provide Freckles with a loving home, please click the ‘Apply to adopt‘ button below to contact us and start your adoption journey today.
