Five tiny, fluffy ducklings have been brought safely into the world thanks to some tender love and attention from residents at a New Forest dementia care home.
The new arrivals stole the limelight at Colten Care’s Linden House in Lymington after hatching out of their eggs in an incubator.
Companionship Team Leader Sian Harris said: “Several of our residents gathered eagerly to watch as these little lives slowly emerged.
“Once they were safely with us, we were keen to care for them and support their needs.
“One precious moment came when our new arrivals took their first swim in a repurposed washing-up bowl. It brought a lot of laughter and no-one minded getting splashed a little.”
Being close-up with the ducklings unlocked childhood memories for some residents.
John Porter recalled his years growing up on a farm, sharing stories of the ducks he once cared for.
And Pamela Bradley remembered the ducks she kept in her family’s garden.
Sian said that perhaps the most touching aspect of the births was the response from residents who are non-verbal.
“Their smiles, laughter and engaged expressions spoke volumes about the joy the ducklings brought,” she said.
Linden House, which is rated Outstanding by sector regulator the Care Quality Commission, is one of several Colten Care homes to have hosted the births of ducklings in previous spring seasons.
The babies tend to stay for up to two weeks before going to a permanent home.
