Without a mama duck around, Pip quickly imprinted on his Buzzfeed “parents”—chirping at staff, snuggling up for attention, and excitedly following them around. But Pip would soon outgrow their space, and he needed more care than they could provide.

Some people send their hatching project “graduates” back into meat production (Muscovy ducks like Pip are popular in this industry). But staff couldn’t bear the thought of sending Pip to slaughter. He was charming, funny, and affectionate—an individual, not a meal. So, they asked if we could welcome Pip to Farm Sanctuary. He’s been making a splash in our care ever since!

While Pip made friends with other ducks, he still seeks out and enjoys interactions with people. He waddles straight up to us, wags his tail like a dog, and quacks with delight as we scratch his chest and declare how handsome and special he is!

We’re so glad that Pip has the chance to shine—and we hope that in befriending Pip, more people will see ducks as stars in their own right.