Update on Russ Hilderley's rescued duck

SooToday.com received the following note today from faithful reader Russ Hilderley, informing us of the progress made in the rehabilitation of an injured duck discovered last week on his property in Goulais Bay.

***************************** Last Tuesday, August 16, you carried our appeal for a wildlife rehabber to rescue an injured muscovy duck.

There were many who responded.

It was a gratifying experience with a happy ending (with a happier beginning for the duck, which my darling wife Kitty named "Natasha").

To refresh, this most unusual creature found refuge around and under our dock at Goulais Bay.

It appeared to have a broken leg, and struggled to "hop" up on a low-lying platform.

Jenna Huff had experience with injured birds, and along with her friend Thomas Heale, travelled from the city with towels and a carton to rescue her.

Jenna's gentle touch and soft words as she cradled this beautiful creature is something very special.

Natasha was brought to the Feifel Farm where Marta Feifel has rendered loving care.

She called today to say her new charge is doing well in the protection of her compound.

The leg is permanently deformed from an old injury that never properly healed.

Nevertheless, Natasha is gaining strength, eating well, and will soon be released into the pond with other ducks on the Feifel property.

This winter, she'll be safe and warm with indoor comforts.

What a wonderful feeling it is to know individuals in our community who have this unique quality.

I'm sure there are many, and my wife and I have been privileged to meet some of them.

Many thanks to SooToday.com for what you do!

Russ Hilderley 1943 Mission Road, Goulais Bay

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