It's probably pretty nerve-wracking for animal lovers to see furry critters trying to cross a busy road, especially when the animals in question are a bunch of ducklings.
According to the OPP's Highway Safety Division, an officer came across a vehicle that was pulled over on the left shoulder of Highway 406 in St. Catharines on Thursday.
Upon assessment, police discovered that the driver was actually trying to protect several ducklings from scurrying onto the busy roadway.
Little ducklings rescued on #Hwy406/4th Ave #StCatharines.pic.twitter.com/XtKtmkvoib— OPP Highway Safety Division (@OPP Highway Safety Division) 1652366056
"I saw these little ducklings scurrying around against a concrete wall, no sign of any mother in the area, and I pull over and put on my emergency lights," an OPP officer reported from the scene.
The motorist who had stopped continued on their way and the ducklings were placed into a paper bag for safety.
"The other good Samaritan, she went on her way. I didn't want anyone getting hurt and getting out into traffic," the officer said.
Unfortunately, police said they couldn't see any signs of the ducklings' mother. However, they said they plan to take the animals to a nearby wildlife centre or creek.
OPP is reminding residents who spot wildlife in distress to call the police or Animal Services and avoid handling the situation themselves.
"Please don't put yourself in more jeopardy by getting out of your vehicle and trying to rescue them," police said.
Hopefully, the ducklings won't find themselves in such a terrifying situation ever again.
