A dramatic rescue operation was carried out in Hull after nine ducklings and their mother were spotted hatching on a rooftop. The family of ducks was rescued by a team of wildlife experts from Hull Wildlife Protectors, who were called to the scene after a member of staff noticed the ducklings on a second-floor terrace.
According to Peter Gray, a volunteer with Hull Wildlife Protectors, ducks often choose unusual places to lay their eggs, but this particular location was a cause for concern. 'The mother duck may have been left wandering around the city centre trying to find water, which would require crossing busy roads,' he explained.
The biggest concern was that the ducklings would try to jump off the building, which would result in serious injury. Fortunately, the wildlife group was able to rescue the family safely and take them to Ren's Wildlife Hospital in Keyingham for care. 'The ducklings and mum are doing really well and will be released into the wild when they are ready to fly,' said Pamela Maunsell, founder and trustee of Ren's Wildlife Hospital.
The rescue highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and the need for people to take action if they find animals in distress. 'When the weather is dry and hot, wildlife may be struggling for food and water, so you may see them in unusual areas and coming a bit closer,' explained Gray.