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About
About
The ducks at Appalachian State University have been referred to as “the best unofficial mascots in college” and provide joy to everyone who visits them at the Duck Pond.
There are many different domesticated breeds represented, including Pekin, Magpie, Khaki Campbell, and Saxony. Not all ducks migrate, and these are well equipped for the cold winter weather, with two layers of feathers that are incredibly warm and waterproof.
History
History
The duck pond began as a water retention area during the 1950s while nearby residence halls were under construction. The first ducks were placed on the pond by a member of the community during this same time period. While most of our current ducks were born at the pond, unfortunately, some were abandoned there by their owners. All animals should be cared for throughout the duration of their lives, and there are numerous rescue organizations who can help pet owners when needed.
App State Duck Fun Facts
App State Duck Fun Facts
Our ducks receive 100 lbs. of nutritious food pellets every week, plus snacks from visitors (cooked rice, peas, corn, cut grapes, mealworms).
They can easily tolerate cold temperatures (20° F and below). The pond's concave shape helps keep wind speeds lower at the water level than in the surrounding landscape.
Ducks can often be differentiated as male/female by their quacking sounds, tail feathers, size, and color patterns.
The Duck Caretaking Committee
The Duck Caretaking Committee
Many people at App State play an important role in the well-being of the ducks, and all of us can ensure they enjoy a healthy and clean habitat.
Chaired by the main caretaker of the App State ducks, Dr. Daniel Byrd, the Duck Caretaking Committee is composed of faculty and staff representing the following areas: Veterinary Technology, Sustainable Development, Landscape Services, App State Police, and the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. We also have a student representative who assists in the day-to-day care of the ducks.
App State provides our ducks with food made specifically for them, and we constantly monitor their habitat to keep it clean. If you would like to feed the ducks, please consider giving them peas, corn, cooked rice, mealworms, and diced fruit or vegetables. Bread may be filling, but it does not provide adequate nutrition and can become stuck in the ducks’ throats. We always appreciate it when people pick up trash around the pond, too!
Concerned about a Duck?
Concerned about a Duck?
If you have a concern about one of the ducks, please complete this short form, and we will check on them for you. Thank you!
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