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If you have ever visited the Auburn City Park you have most likely been greeted by a duck or two before you leave. The ducks are a “feather” in the cap of the city, and its council wants to secure that aspect of the park’s experience by trying to protect them.

The ducks, mostly Teals, started calling the park their home years ago, and thanks to the kindness of the park’s manager, they have grown in numbers for everyone to enjoy.

Councilman and Park Commissioner Shane Johnson contacted the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife about ways to protect the ducks further. They suggested he contact Ducks Unlimited about a program they have concerning woodland ducks, which he did.

“The state is going to be contacting a specialist at Western Kentucky University who will come down to our park and evaluate the ducks,” said Johnson, adding that afterwards Ducks Unlimited said they would build duck boxes for the waterfowl, which will allow nesting and protection from predators.

The boxes are very inconspicuous and will blend in with the environment. Johnson urges people to stay away from the boxes and allow them to be a safe haven for the ducks. The boxes are expected to be placed sometime in the fall.

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s leader in wetlands and waterfowl conservation. The organization got its start in 1937 during the Dust Bowl when North America’s drought-plagued waterfowl populations had plunged to unprecedented lows. Determined not to sit idly by as the continent’s waterfowl dwindled beyond recovery, a small group of sportsmen joined together to form an organization that became known as Ducks Unlimited. It’s mission is to conserve, restore and manage wetlands and associated habitats for North America’s waterfowl. These habitats also benefit other wildlife and people.

Johnson said it was his daughter who brought the duck’s protection his attention.

“We need to protect these ducks that are calling Auburn park their home. We need to become more informed about their care and help them to live healthy lives,” said Johnson.

During peak season there are approximately 75 ducks at the park, however, generally there are 30.