University of Miami Students Urge Action After Heartbreaking Video of Beloved Campus Duck Attack

CORAL GABLES, FLA. (WSVN) – A short video has sparked outrage among animal lovers at the University of Miami. It shows a beloved duck, affectionately named ‘Ivan’ by students, being kicked by a man who appears to be a campus employee.

Alexa Wood, a member of the UPurr animal advocacy group, described the event to 7News. “The guy turned around and kicked it. The duck just stumbled away,” she said. The incident took place last week, but it went viral on social media shortly after.

Wood believes the man in the video is identifiable by the employee ID lanyard he wore. “All employees must have their IDs visible,” she explained. Ivan is not just any duck—students have developed a fondness for him due to his friendly nature. “The first time I met him was at Starbucks,” Wood recalled. “When people saw that video, they felt like it was their own pet being harmed.”

A later photo emerged, showing another individual holding a duck that looked similar to Ivan by the wings. “It seemed lifeless and had the same coloring,” said Wood. The connection between this duck and the one in the video is still uncertain, as is whether either was harmed.

Following the incident, students reported what happened. The university released a statement, confirming that the University of Miami Police Department and other departments are investigating. They noted, “Harming wildlife is a criminal offense and will be prosecuted.”

Wood expressed her concerns about workplace conduct, saying, “The worst a duck can do is peck you, and that wouldn’t even hurt. I think he should face consequences.” Students are passionately seeking justice and hope to reunite with Ivan.

This incident raises questions about how animals are treated on campuses and highlights a growing concern for animal welfare. A recent survey by the ASPCA found that nearly 70% of Americans consider pets as family. This reflects a broader trend where people are increasingly protective of animals.

Social media has been abuzz, with the hashtag #JusticeForIvan trending as students and activists rally for the duck’s safety. As animal rights activists gain more visibility, incidents like this prompt discussions about humane treatment for all creatures.

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