University’s famously tall duck called ‘Long Boi’ has gone missing
An extraordinarily tall duck beloved by staff and students at the University of York has gone missing, with no sightings on the campus for almost two weeks.
Pictures of Long Boi, an Indian runner duck of undetermined age, were spread widely online around two years ago after a Reddit thread proclaiming him the tallest duck ever to live went viral.
York residents young and old took the 70cm bird into their hearts – particularly after reports the other ducks were bullying him because of his height.
But the last confirmed sighting of the famous fowl was on April 22, and students visiting his favourite spot beside a lake at the west end of the university’s campus since have been left disappointed and worried.
The duck’s official Instagram page, which has almost 57,000 followers, posted a picture of Long Boi at sunset alongside an emotional message yesterday evening, saying his fans should prepare themselves for the worst.
Zoe, an admin on the page, wrote: ‘Very sadly, this disappearance suggests a strong possibility that Long Boi may have passed away.
‘It is unclear how or exactly when this may have happened, and we can only hope that if Long Boi really is gone, his passing was peaceful.’
The post continued: ‘Whether going to feed Long Boi as a well-earned stress relief during exam season, or awaiting his lighthearted Instagram updates through times of uncertainty and lockdowns, Long Boi has always brought a smile to his fans and friends.
‘Long Boi’s rise to fame has also introduced us to new duck-loving friends, not just in York, but all around the world, brought together by our love for one incredibly unique duck – Long Boi will always be remembered by those who knew and loved him.’
A spokesperson for the University of York struck a more optimistic tone, saying: ‘Long Boi is a much-loved character on campus and whilst we haven’t seen him around over the past few weeks, we continue to keep a lookout for him and hope to see him again, safe and well, soon.’
The first post on Long Boi’s Instagram page was made almost exactly four years ago, on May 12 2019.
Since then, his popularity – like the duck himself – has grown to unbelievable heights, with his image featuring on university society logos and merchandise including stickers, socks, notebooks and a Valentines Day card.
There have even been reports of York students getting tattoos of the lengthy bird.
Concerns about his possible demise online have led to suggestions the university could erect a permanent memorial to the late celebrity.
Wendy Jane wrote: ‘I feel like he needs his own statue on the campus. Happy to contribute to make this happen.’
Susan Venton added: ‘If Long Boi has passed away I think there should be a Long Boi statue.
‘What a lovely, friendly duck.’
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