Some years ago, Steven Thibeault, a Nahant, Massachusetts resident, saw a young duckling drowning in the pool from his window. As soon as he saw the baby, he ran to his aid. After removing the chick, the man attempted to find his mother, but was unsuccessful.
Steven took the duckling home and nurtured it himself. The bird, known as Cheerio, ate well and developed rapidly, so Steven considered releasing him into the wild.However, the duckling was not in a hurry to leave his foster father. Cheerio spent the day flying, swimming in the ocean, and socializing with other ducks, then returned home at night while his father worked.
Psychologically, Steven is prepared for the day when the duckling abandons him forever, but he seems to like this way of life and has no plans to change. As any caring owner would be delighted with Cheerio’s social life, Steven is also pleased that Cheerio chooses to spend evenings and nights with him.
When the guy arrives home from work, the duckling is already waiting for him at the door. This strange pair goes around the yard, making neighbors smile. Having been fed by a man, Steven was concerned that the duckling could not communicate with his family. Conversely, Cheerio quickly joined the team.
According to Steven, the duck feels insecure around ladies, and the guy occasionally offers him comfort. The general situation is good, however. A variety of birds spend their winters on Nahant’s mild waters, including eiders, mallards, geese, and gulls. Steven’s cat, Reeses, is also a fan of the social duckling. Their backyard is a favorite place for them to spend time together.
When Steven brought home a wet duck a few years ago, he had no idea Cheerio would become his loyal friend. It is clear to him that the duckling belongs in the wild, but he will not demand it – his door is always open.
