No Challenge Too Frozen or Feathered for RFD
We’ve all heard of firefighters saving cats from trees, but how about ducks stuck in ice?
We’ve all heard of firefighters saving cats from trees, but how about ducks stuck in ice?
One of Rye Town Park’s resident ducks – an Indian Runner – had fallen through an icy hole in the duck pond January 4, necessitating a Rye Fire Department rescue mission.
“When we received the call, we knew we had to send the firefighter most knowledgeable of the high seas,” joked Lieutenant Jim Dianni. “Jeff Fernandes was immediately dispatched. I think he had a nice conversation with the duck before he rescued it.”
Fernandes set sail in a dinghy, breaking the ice with a big pole and calling out “Hey buddy!” as he approached. Nightfall had long set in, so the Rye Police assisted by using their cruiser headlights to illuminate the scene. The duck was surprised by Fernandes’ presence, and fought successfully to free itself from the icy hole. Although Fernandes was never able to get a hold of the black duck, the Fire Department was confident in its safety.
Along with Fernandes, Hal Aken and John Cotter were responsible for the big save. Rye resident and licensed wildlife rehabilitator Jill Doornick spotted the distressed duck and made the call. Doornick noted that the Indian Runner has been bred to walk erect, and that its balance is very different from the white Pekin ducks that also call Rye Town Park home.
“If the winter is cold, it might be difficult for several of these domestic ducks that really belong on a farm,” she said. “They were obviously dumped by someone without asking.”
She continued, “I have been rehabbing wildlife and involved in rescuing ducks, swans, geese, songbirds, opossums, deer, skunks, squirrels, whatever for 17 years. In other communities maybe an off duty cop or fireman would help, but not like this! I was so proud of my hometown Rye police and fire departments! For those who appreciate and respect all animals as many of us do, it is heart warming when city officials actually care enough to come to the aid of non human beings.”
Three quacks for all involved in the warm-hearted rescue on a cold winter’s night.
– Jim Byrne
— Photo by Jill Doornick
