As spring rolls on in Brooklyn Park, you will see some new additions to the local wildlife population. Many ducklings and goslings are out and about exploring their new world after hatching a few weeks ago. However, their curiosity can get them into trouble, with some getting stuck in storm drains along streets.
Thankfully, the city’s Operations and Maintenance staff are ready to rescue our feathered friends.
Every year the staff save hundreds of ducklings from storm sewer catch basins throughout this city. They have already rescued over 30 so far in 2020, including 15 from one drain in the Sunny Lane neighborhood in early May.
Using a variety of tools for the job, Operations and Maintenance staff can open drains and manhole covers, use nets and containers to retrieve the ducklings and extendable mirrors to peek around and make sure they do not leave anyone behind.
As the ducklings have been rescued, they are placed in a clear container with holes so the hen can hear and see her babies as they come out. Once all the little ones are all together, staff will lead the hen to a safer spot and release the ducklings to her.
If you spot ducklings or other animals that are stuck in our storm drains, call our Operations and Maintenance division at 763-493-8007 during normal business hours, or 911 on nights and weekends.