A duck has been rescued from a train at Herne Hill Station in London after it was left behind by its owner. The plump bird, which was later named Jack by its rescuer, was discovered by a

passenger on Friday evening. Southeastern railway took to Twitter to request the owner to come forward and collect the duck. The bird was subsequently rescued by Ann Aitken-Davies from London Wildlife Protection, who named it after the baby found in a handbag on a train station in The Importance of Being Ernest.

Although the reason for its abandonment remains unclear, Jack was found in good condition, leading Aitken-Davies to suggest that the owner knew the bird would be rescued if left on the train. Jack is believed to be a pet and is currently under quarantine with a volunteer from the Swan Sanctuary. The bird will be given a permanent home there once the quarantine period is over.

Southeastern railway thanked Twitter users for their concerns about Jack's welfare and their "quacking puns". One user joked about the duck missing the last train and having to wake up at the quack of dawn to catch the next one.

The incident highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need to provide proper care for animals. Pets require attention and care, including food, water, shelter, and exercise, as well as regular visits to a veterinarian. Owners who can no longer care for their pets should consider finding them a suitable new home rather than abandoning them. Animal welfare organisations, such as the RSPCA and the Blue Cross, provide advice and support for pet owners who are struggling to care for their animals. Photo by Ernst Vikne, Wikimedia commons.