Categories: Things To Do

This Alberta village is home to the world’s largest mallard duck

Photo Via Travel Alberta

Did you know Alberta is home to the world’s largest mallard duck? You can find the giant bird in Andrew, a small village northeast of Edmonton, where it’s been a local landmark since the ’90s.

The massive sculpture celebrates the wetlands and lakes surrounding the village, and it sits along a major bird migration route, making it a great spot for birdwatching.

If you’re planning a visit, here’s what to know about the giant duck and what else you can check out nearby.

What to expect at the world’s largest mallard duck

What’s the story behind the giant duck?

According to the Village of Andrew, the giant mallard was built in 1992 to recognize the wetlands and lakes that surround Andrew, which provide important habitat for mallards and other waterfowl. The sculpture stands in the middle of Lions Park, weighs one tonne, and has a wingspan of nearly 23 feet.

The village also sits along a migration route used by birds for travelling through the region, so it’s a pretty popular area for birdwatching during the spring and fall.

Where is Andrew?

Andrew is a small village in central Alberta, about 100 kilometres northeast of Edmonton, and is about 380 kilometres from Calgary,

If you’re planning to see the World’s Largest Mallard statue, you can find it in the centre of the village in Lion’s Park, where you can access it year-round, free of charge.

What else can I do in Andrew?

While you’re in Andrew, you can also check out a few of the village’s local spots and explore the surrounding area.

Visit the Andrew Village Pioneer Museum
- Housed in Andrew’s original CPR station, the Andrew museum offers a glimpse into the area’s history through a collection of artifacts spread across two floors. The main floor features household items, textiles, storefront displays and church memorabilia, while the basement showcases historic woodworking, blacksmithing, and laundry equipment.
  - Where: 5315 50th Ave., Andrew, Alta.
Hit the lanes at Andrew’s Bowling Alley
- Andrew is also home to a bowling alley, which is located in the village’s administration office. You can drop in for a game during daytime office hours, but evening games will need to be booked ahead of time.
  - Where: 5021 50th St., Andrew, Alta.
Go birdwatching at Whitford Lake
- Whitford Lake, located near Andrew, is surrounded by wetlands that attract mallards and waterfowl. The area sits along a major bird migration route, so keep your eyes peeled for different species passing through.
  - Where: Between Township Road 562 and Range Road 162, near Andrew, Alta.

If you’re already exploring this part of Alberta, there are a few other giant sculptures worth adding to your itinerary. Head to Mundare to see the world’s largest sausage or visit Vegreville’s giant Ukrainian Easter egg, which stands 31 feet tall and weighs nearly 5,000 pounds.