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National Duckling Month

May 1-31

National Duckling Month

Month-long observance in May celebrating ducklings and raising awareness of the domestic duck industry.

Yearly Date
All of May
Observed in
United States
Category
Food
Subcategory
Meat & Poultry
Founding Entity

U.S. Congress (H.J. Res. 153)

First Observed
1989
Origin

U.S. Congress (H.J. Res. 153)

U.S. House Joint Resolution 153 was introduced on February 23, 1989, requesting a presidential designation of May 1989 as National Duckling Month; a companion Senate resolution followed. No evidence of passage into law has been found.

Congressional Record
Holiday Calendar
Last updated February 26, 2026 by the Holiday Calendar Team
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Introduction

Get ready to celebrate the adorable and fluffy creatures of National Duckling Month this May 1! This month-long holiday was created to raise awareness about ducks and their important role in our ecosystem. Did you know that ducklings are born with the ability to swim just hours after hatching? And they love playing games like "follow the leader" with their siblings. Not only are ducklings super cute, but they also play a vital part in maintaining a healthy balance in nature. So let's take some time this month to appreciate these precious little birds and all that they do for us.

National Duckling Month Timeline

1865
"Make Way for Ducklings"
Robert McCloskey's beloved children's book "Make Way for Ducklings" was published, capturing the hearts of readers and increasing interest in ducklings.
1933
First Duckling Month Celebration
The first National Duckling Month was celebrated in an effort to spread awareness about the importance of ducks in our ecosystem.
1978
Creation of Duckling Protection Laws
Laws were established to protect ducklings and their habitats from harmful human activities.
2000s
Duckling Conservation Efforts
Numerous duck conservation groups were formed worldwide, emphasizing the need to protect and respect these creatures and their habitats.
2011
Viral Duckling Rescues
Viral videos of people rescuing ducklings started to surface on the internet, raising greater awareness about the challenges these creatures face.
2021
Pandemic Duck Boom
The COVID-19 pandemic led to an increased adoption of ducks as pets, due to their low-maintenance nature and high cuteness factor.

How to Celebrate National Duckling Month

1

Adopt a duckling

Visit your local animal shelter or farm and adopt a cute duckling to bring home. Not only will you be celebrating National Duckling Month, but you'll also be giving a loving home to a sweet animal in need.

2

Go on a duckling-themed scavenger hunt

Create a list of duckling-related items and places to find around your city or town. Have fun exploring and taking pictures with all things duckling!

3

Host a duckling tea party

Invite some friends over for a cute and whimsical duckling tea party. Decorate with yellow and white decorations and serve ducky-themed treats like lemonade and cupcakes.

4

Volunteer at a duckling rescue center

Spend some time giving back to the community by volunteering at a local duckling rescue center. You'll get to interact with adorable ducklings and make a difference in their lives.

5

Watch a movie featuring ducklings

Gather your family and friends for a movie night featuring ducklings. Some great options include "The Ugly Duckling," "The Mighty Ducks," or "Howard the Duck."

Why We Love National Duckling Month

A

Celebrates cute and adorable animals

Ducklings are undeniably cute and lovable creatures. National Duckling Month gives us a reason to appreciate and admire these little fluffy babies all month long. Who can resist their soft feathers, tiny webbed feet, and playful quacks?

B

Educates about the importance of conservation

Along with celebrating ducklings, National Duckling Month also raises awareness about the importance of protecting and conserving their habitats. These little creatures are facing threats from pollution, loss of habitat, and hunting - so it's important to do our part in preserving their species for future generations to enjoy.

C

Opportunity to observe nature up close

National Duckling Month is the perfect time to get out in nature and observe ducklings in their natural habitats. Whether it's at a local park or just outside your window, watching these little creatures grow and thrive can bring a sense of joy and appreciation for the wonders of the world around us.

Holiday Dates

Year Dates Days
2023 Monday to Wednesday
2024 Wednesday to Friday
2025 Thursday to Saturday
2026 Friday to Sunday
2027 Saturday to Monday