Is this possibly the cutest job in the world?
It certainly seems so for residents in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, who escort 20 ducks each evening so they roost for the night.
The ducks first started to make the trip unsupervised last year which meant four were killed while crossing the road.
This is when the locals, affectionately known as ‘duckies’, decided to step in and help.
Once the ducks pick their favourite spot, the ‘duckies’ place cones around them and watch the cute birds until they sleep.
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It’s a mystery why the ducks make the trip but some believe the mother ducks feel safer sleeping with their chicks away from river predators.
Emma-Jayne Hutchings, 48, volunteers and said: ‘It is really heartwarming and adorable escorting the ducks on their walk.
‘You know when they are leaving as they all start quacking like a call for arms then they march up in two battalions.
‘It has brought a wealth of community spirit with all parts getting involved to make sure the ducks are safe.
‘We have have been donated high-vis jackets to wear and food for the ducks.
‘The local pub, the Mowbray Arms provides us with cups of tea or coffee whilst we watch over them.
‘Not just that it has been a really nice way to meet like-minded people who have since become friends.’
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- Chocolate consultant
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- Professional bridesmaid
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The formation of the ‘duckies’ was the brainchild of Jodie Wood, 41, who set up a Facebook page and now organises volunteers alongside Emma to keep the ducks safe.
What’s more, the group has officially gone viral and has received support across the globe from countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, and Italy.
Jodie revealed that it’s not all fun and games though when volunteering as a duckie.
How to apply?
Although it isn’t technically a job you can apply for, the group is asking for volunteers (if you want to travel then you might have too).
The best place is to join the Facebook Page, Thirsk Ducks.
‘Sometimes we get drunk revellers trying to touch them, mess with them and walk through them,’ she revealed.
‘But 99 per cent of the time it’s fine and people just come to chat and take pictures, but you do get the odd one.
‘We’ve not had any fatalities since we started the group and had the volunteers.
‘We are lucky to have such a great following and so much support.’
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