Merlin the Duck’s World Cup Fame Sparks Animal Welfare Concerns in Mexico

During the 2026 FIFA World Cup events in Mexico, a duck named Merlin gained unexpected fame after being spotted wearing a Mexican national team jersey in Mexico City. The incident has raised alarms among animal welfare groups about the potential rise in irresponsible pet ownership of waterfowl, according to the Unidad de Rehabilitación de Fauna Silvestre Pachuca.

What Happened with Merlin the Duck?

Merlin, a 2-year-old duck, became a local sensation after appearing in the Mexico City neighborhood of Alameda Central while wearing a World Cup-themed shirt. The duck, who typically accompanies his owner Carla Gómez as she sells beverages from a cart, was photographed by passersby and quickly gained attention on social media. The Unidad de Rehabilitación de Fauna Silvestre Pachuca noted that Merlin’s sudden popularity mirrors a broader trend where animals become internet sensations, often leading to impulsive pet purchases.

Why Are Animal Welfare Groups Concerned?

The Unidad de Rehabilitación de Fauna Silvestre Pachuca warned that animals like Merlin could become “fashion items” for unprepared owners. “Animals aren’t toys or gifts—they require long-term responsibility,” the organization stated in a June 2024 post. The group reported receiving numerous abandoned ducks annually, emphasizing that waterfowl need spacious habitats, clean water, and specialized diets. “Many people don’t realize ducks can live up to 10 years and require social interaction,” said Mariam Leal, a TikTok influencer with 760,000 followers who owns a duck named Gansito.

What Does the Data Say About Duck Abandonment?

A June 3, 2024, report by the Procuraduría Ambiental y del Ordenamiento Territorial (PAOT) of Mexico City revealed 17 domestic ducks were rescued from Lago Huayamilpas in Coyoacán. The animals were temporarily housed at Bienestar Animal Cuemanco while the lake underwent cleaning. MVZ Karen Matus, a veterinarian with the Instagram account Medicina Aviar Guadalajara, noted that specialized care for ducks is often difficult to access, driving up costs for owners. “Finding a vet who treats waterfowl can be challenging, and many owners abandon ducks when they realize the financial and logistical demands,” she said.

How Can Potential Duck Owners Prepare?

Experts advise prospective duck owners to research the animal’s needs thoroughly. Ducks require large outdoor spaces, regular access to water, and a diet of commercial duck feed or grains. The Unidad de Rehabilitación de Fauna Silvestre Pachuca emphasized that abandoning ducks in natural water bodies is dangerous, as domesticated birds lack survival skills. “Animals abandoned in parks or lakes have a low chance of thriving,” the organization warned.

What’s Next for Merlin and Similar Animals?

While Merlin’s story highlights the risks of animal celebrity, it also underscores the importance of responsible pet ownership. Animal welfare advocates urge the public to view animals as long-term commitments rather than temporary trends. “If you’re considering a duck as a pet, ask yourself: Are you prepared for a decade of care?” Leal said. Meanwhile, the PAOT continues to monitor urban water bodies for stray animals, with plans to expand its rescue operations in 2025.