The tiny ducklings have just hatched, and life takes a cruel turn. Their mom runs away and doesn’t return.

Fortunately for the little ones, this doesn’t happen in the wild but at Mountfitchet Castle in Essex, England.

Here, they have a highly unusual foster mom.

A New Experience for Fred

This new duck mom is, firstly, not a duck and, secondly, not even a mom, but a dad.

None other than the castle’s dog, Fred, personally takes care of the little gang.

The eleven-year-old Labrador is quite experienced in dealing with rescued animals because the castle has taken in many.

However, the fact that he’s trying out his parenting skills surprises the castle’s two-legged residents.

Honorary Member of the Ducks

Even more surprising is how well this highly unusual foster parenthood works out. The ducklings are initially puzzled because the furry creature has nothing duck-like about him.

However, it doesn’t take long, and the dog gains the trust of the little ones. His Labrador breed proves to be a significant advantage.

Few other breeds enjoy swimming as much. For the ducklings, Fred is clearly an honorary member of the ducks.

However, he remains a dog, which is not a bad thing at all. Dogs are fantastic ride-on animals for little ducks. You can let them carry you around wonderfully.

Why Not a Second Time?

If this story is already amazing, it becomes even more incredible a year later because it repeats itself. Once again, the actual duck mom goes on a journey shortly after the hatching and doesn’t return, and once again, it’s Fred who steps into the mother role.

The six young ducklings accept him within a few minutes. Perhaps it’s because he already has experience and knows what to expect from the little ones.

One thing is clear: If orphaned ducks are discovered in the vicinity of the castle again, no one other than Fred will care for them.

You can watch Fred together with his first nine ducklings on the ABC News Facebook channel.