Orphaned ducks housed in Minneapolis storefront released back into the wild

Fritz Faus, a 62-year-old retiree from Minneapolis, adopted three orphaned mallard ducks that approached him two months ago. He raised them in an empty storefront window, feeding them and caring for them with the help of his daughters. On July 15, 2025, they released the ducks at Lake Harriet, a popular gathering spot for local ducks. Faus described the joy of nurturing the ducks, saying it brought him satisfaction despite the investment of time and resources. The ducks initially hesitated but eventually waddled into the lake to join their new companions.

Faus has a deep-rooted love for wildlife, having spent his childhood connecting with nature. He plans to return to the lake regularly with minnows, just in case his former pets remember him. This story emphasizes the importance of compassion for animals, even in urban environments.