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National Duckling Month

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

Saturday

1–31

May 2027

Last updated May 17, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of May

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYMeat

ORIGIN

Legislative Resolution

FOUNDING ENTITY

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

FIRST OBSERVED

1989

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

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 Recordvia govinfo.gov

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

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.

TIMELINE

National Duckling Month Timeline

"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.

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.

Creation of Duckling Protection Laws

Laws were established to protect ducklings and their habitats from harmful human activities.

Duckling Conservation Efforts

Numerous duck conservation groups were formed worldwide, emphasizing the need to protect and respect these creatures and their habitats.

Viral Duckling Rescues

Viral videos of people rescuing ducklings started to surface on the internet, raising greater awareness about the challenges these creatures face.

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.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Duckling Month

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.

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!

HOST

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.

VOLUNTEER

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.

WATCH

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 THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Duckling Month

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.

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?

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.

Related holidays

National Frog Month

Hop into National Frog Month with fun activities, educational resources and a chance to appreciate these amazing amphibians!

National Pet Month

Awareness month in May to promote responsible pet ownership, celebrate human-animal bonds, and encourage pet adoption and animal welfare.

National Rubber Ducky Day

A fun observance on January 13 celebrating the rubber duck, the iconic bath toy beloved by children and adults alike.

National Bunny Day

Hop on over and join the fun this National Bunny Day! Show your love for bunnies with activities, crafts, and more!

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