Police officers in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, rescued a parent mallard duck and its offspring after they became stranded on a road median [1].

The incident highlights the dangers urban infrastructure poses to wildlife, as the animals were trapped in the middle of active traffic lanes where they were vulnerable to passing vehicles [2].

The ducks had attempted to cross the road but became stuck on the central dividing strip [2]. Because of the constant flow of cars, the animals were in a precarious position. A witness said, "I just wanted them not to die. I hoped the cars would notice" [2].

Officers arrived at the scene to secure the area and ensure traffic safety while attempting to move the birds [1]. One officer attempted to lure the ducks toward safety using food, saying, "This time I'll try to lure them with some bread" [2].

Despite the effort with food, the initial attempt to lure the ducks failed [1]. The officer expressed surprise at the ducks' refusal to follow the bread, saying, "Seriously" [2].

Following the failed attempt with bread, the police continued to monitor the situation and guided the animals toward a nearby river [1]. The parent and offspring, totaling two birds [1], successfully exited the roadway and reached the water without injury [1, 2].

The rescue operation required the officers to balance the safety of the animals with the flow of city traffic to prevent further accidents on the road [2].

“"I just wanted them not to die. I hoped the cars would notice"”

This incident underscores the ongoing conflict between urban development and natural wildlife corridors. As animals attempt to navigate city infrastructure, they often encounter man-made barriers like road medians that can become traps, requiring emergency intervention from civil authorities to prevent animal casualties and potential traffic hazards.