Thirsk Residents Rally to Protect Nightly Duck Crossing
In Thirsk, North Yorkshire, volunteers have organized nightly patrols to safeguard a flock of 30 ducks crossing a busy road. The community effort aims to prevent accidents and protect local wildlife.
In the quaint market town of Thirsk, North Yorkshire, a group of dedicated residents has taken on an unusual role: protecting a flock of 30 ducks during their nightly journey across a busy road. This community-led initiative has emerged in response to recent accidents involving the local waterfowl.
Jodie Wood, the 40-year-old founder of this volunteer effort, established a Facebook group to coordinate the nightly patrols. The group has quickly gained traction, amassing over 2,000 members and recruiting about 15 active volunteers. These "duck wardens" don hi-vis jackets and use traffic cones to ensure the safety of the feathered pedestrians.
The ducks' nightly migration began approximately two months ago, with the flock leaving a nearby river around 8 pm to spend the night in a local car park. They typically return to the river at about 6:30 am the following morning. Experts suggest that this behavior may be a response to potential predators, such as minks or otters, near their usual habitat.
"I made the group because we lost a mum and two ducklings, as they got ran over. There was also a white duck and they got ran over while crossing the road."
The volunteers' efforts have proven successful, with no fatalities reported since the patrols began. However, the group faces challenges beyond traffic, including occasional interference from intoxicated individuals attempting to interact with the ducks.
Thirsk, famously associated with veterinarian and author James Herriot (pen name of Alf Wight), now adds another chapter to its rich history of animal care. The town's response to this unique situation demonstrates the power of community-led conservation efforts in protecting local wildlife.
Looking ahead, the volunteer group is advocating for the installation of duck crossing signs to alert drivers and visitors about the nightly duck parade. This simple measure could provide an additional layer of protection for the ducks and potentially reduce the need for nightly patrols in the future.
As this heartwarming story unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the positive impact that dedicated individuals can have on their local environment and wildlife. The Thirsk duck wardens exemplify how community action can make a significant difference in preserving the delicate balance between urban life and nature.
