Photos by Yuvie Styles

NorthPark Center is home to some of our neighborhood’s favorite shops and eateries, but the center’s draw is more than high-end shopping.

Kids can frequently be found huddled around the duck and turtle pond outside Neiman Marcus oohing and aahing at the cute ducklings. The pond features little houses for the birds, warming lamps and plenty of spots to perch or waddle. But where do they come from? Where do they go? We had questions too, and NorthPark spokeswoman Kristen Gibbins answered.

Where do they go at night?
The ducks stay in the pond at night or get out and wander around Neiman Marcus Court. They enjoy window shopping at nearby retailers and looking at their reflection in the glass.

Who takes care of the ducks?
Our in-house landscaping team takes great care of the ducks and their habitat to ensure they are provided a wonderful home here at NorthPark Center.

Do they have names? If so, how do you tell them apart?
While they do not have specific names given to them by NorthPark, many children come back time and again to see their favorite ducks swimming and playing in the pond.

How old are they?
The ducks are a NorthPark tradition going back nearly 60 years. They can typically live to be 10 or 15 years, but we do rotate the animals out after a few years.

What will happen to them when they’ve fully grown?
When the ducks retire from the center, they are sent to a duck sanctuary to live out the rest of their lives.

How do you keep them in the pond area?
The ducks appreciate their habitat, so they are happy to eat and rest in their area.

How is their area kept sanitary?
The pond is completely drained and cleaned every other day, and then refilled with fresh water.

They’re out in the open. Has anyone ever tried to steal one?
We have a security officer stationed in the immediate area, and they keep a watchful eye on the ducks and the turtles to make sure they are protected.

Is there a vet on site?
The ducks receive regular veterinary visits both on-site and at the veterinary office to ensure they stay healthy and happy.