91-year-old resident at care home that hatched ducklings says 'they make me smile a lot'

Residents at care homes run by CHD Living have been watching ducklings and chicks hatch in egg incubators, with one resident saying “they make me smile a lot”.

Shelagh Howes, aged 91 at CHD Living's Surbiton care home

The ethically sourced, high-welfare hatching kits were installed at CHD Living’s care homes last week and within a couple of days, the ducklings and chicks began to hatch.

Since then, residents have been enjoying interacting with the newborn chicks and ducklings, lavishing them with cuddles, teaching them to swim and making sure they have plenty to eat and drink. Some residents even got involved with naming the animals, heartwarmingly calling them after residents who have passed away this year.

Resident Shelagh Howes, 91, from Surbiton Care Home said: "The ducklings are very sweet and so soft - they make me smile a lot. It’s been lovely having them stay with us and they’ve definitely spread a lot of happiness and excitement for spring.”

The chicks and ducklings will now become permanent residents at the care homes with the appropriate facilities for taking long-term care of them. Where no suitable home is available, they will be returned to Incredible Eggs, where they say they will enjoy a first-rate quality of life in high-welfare facilities.

Discussing the initiative, Shaleeza Hasham, head of hospitality and communications at CHD Living, said: "Research heavily suggests that animals can boost general health and well-being, especially as we age. Not only do they bring tremendous amounts of joy, but animals also open up channels for conversation whilst providing sensory stimulation and relaxation too.

"We're hoping to incorporate more animal therapy into our offerings and working with Incredible Eggs on this project has been a fantastic place to start. Our residents and carers have loved every aspect, from the anticipation of waiting for the eggs to hatch to the excitement of welcoming the chicks and ducklings into the world.

“They've made everyone light up with joy. It's been beautiful to see, especially after the tough year we've all had".

Wolfeton Manor in Dorset did the egg hatching experience a few years ago and decided to keep the ducks.

Ducks at Wolfeton Manor care home

Care home manager Claire Saxton said: “Wolfeton Manor has a large pond in the grounds, and the fantastic staff set about creating an incredible duck paradise, which they christened ‘Duckingham Palace’

“The ducks still play an active and important role in the lives of both residents and staff. Because they’re so tame, the residents not only enjoy watching the ducks in the gardens, but indoor visits as well! This is especially beneficial to those residents who are physically limited."

One resident said: “I love hearing them outside my window. They go in and out of their big wooden house. I wonder if they are laying eggs in there? It's funny how majestic they are now from when they were fluffy yellow balls splashing in the paddling pool on the patio.”

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