Mallard Duck Caught On Camera Exceeding Speed Limit In Switzerland

Michael

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Post on May 15, 2025

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Mallard Duck Caught on Camera Exceeding Speed Limit in Switzerland: A Feathered Fugitive's Flight

A surprising traffic violation has captivated Switzerland: a mallard duck caught exceeding the speed limit. Footage captured by a roadside speed camera near Zurich has gone viral, showcasing the feathered offender's surprisingly rapid transit across a busy Swiss roadway. The incident, which occurred last Tuesday, has sparked amusement and debate across the country, raising questions about wildlife and traffic regulations.

The grainy but clear footage shows the mallard, seemingly unfazed by the approaching vehicles, paddling furiously across the road, well above the posted 50 km/h speed limit. Local authorities confirmed the speed, stating the duck clocked in at a remarkable 70 km/h, earning it an honorary (and highly unlikely) speeding ticket.

A Viral Sensation: The Duck's 15 Minutes of Fame

The video, initially shared on social media by a surprised commuter, quickly spread like wildfire. #SwissDuckSpeeding and #MallardMaverick trended on Swiss Twitter, garnering millions of views and thousands of comments. Many praised the duck's daring feat, while others questioned the implications for wildlife and road safety. The incident even prompted a local wildlife expert to comment, stating, "While amusing, it highlights the need for careful driving, especially in areas with frequent wildlife crossings."

Legal Ramifications? A Quacking Question

Naturally, the question on everyone's mind is: can a duck be fined for speeding? The answer, according to Swiss law, is a resounding no. While the incident is certainly unusual, there are currently no provisions in place to penalize animals for traffic violations. However, the viral video has sparked discussions about improving wildlife corridors and road safety measures to prevent similar future occurrences.

Beyond the Laughter: A Call for Wildlife Conservation

While the incident is undoubtedly humorous, it also underscores a more serious issue: the impact of human development on wildlife habitats. The mallard's dash across the busy road may have been a desperate attempt to reach a safer, more suitable environment. This event highlights the importance of:

• Creating wildlife corridors: Designated areas allowing animals to safely cross roads and other obstacles.
• Implementing wildlife-friendly road design: Features like underpasses and overpasses can minimize animal-vehicle collisions.
• Raising public awareness: Educating drivers about wildlife and encouraging cautious driving, especially in areas where wildlife is prevalent.

The Swiss Federal Office for the Environment has acknowledged the video, stating that they are reviewing existing wildlife protection measures and considering further improvements to ensure the safety of both animals and drivers.

This unexpected incident has brought a touch of lightheartedness to Switzerland, but it also serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between humans and wildlife, and the need for responsible coexistence. The case of the speeding mallard is certainly one for the books—a testament to the unpredictable nature of wildlife and the enduring power of a viral video. Learn more about wildlife conservation efforts in Switzerland by visiting the .