Colorful graphic with icons of birds and mammals, a bigger graphic of a wood thrush and words that say Let your adventures begin...Become a Mass Audubon member. Join today.
Colorful graphic with icons of birds and mammals, a bigger graphic of a wood thrush and words that say Let your adventures begin...Become a Mass Audubon member. Join today.
Several rubber ducks floating on water
Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary

Duck Derby Official Rules

  1. Once the ducks are launched, they are on their own. The race committee reserves the right to rescue any duck that wanders onto the riverbank or becomes caught along the course.
  2. Winners will be identified by the number marked on the ducks that cross the finish line first. Each numbered duck is randomly assigned to an entry in the race. 
  3. The decisions of the judges stationed at the finish line are final. Mass Audubon employees are not eligible to win.
  4. Winners will be notified by telephone, email, or U.S. mail. Winners will be instructed on method of claiming their prize, but such claim is the sole responsibility of the prize winner. Winners should redeem prizes within one year unless otherwise specified.
  5. It is not necessary for sponsors of winning ducks to attend the race or any race events.
  6. Names of winners may be published on the Mass Audubon website, social media, and in local media.
  7. 2026 Duck Derby Prizes:
    • Grand Prize: $5,000 cash prize
      The first duck to cross the finish line will win $5,000 to use, however the winner chooses.
    • Second Place: Backyard Habitat Transformation
      Learn to create a thriving, wildlife-friendly landscape—right at home or alongside your community. This prize includes
      1. Enrollment in Mass Audubon’s Sustainable Landscaping Certificate Program (Jan–Oct 2027)
      2. Mass Audubon family membership
      3. Personalized consultation with a Mass Audubon habitat expert to help create a thriving, wildlife-friendly landscape
      4. Resources and guidance tailored to your property and conservation goals.
    • Third Place: Coastal Birds Expedition
      Immerse yourself in Massachusetts’ coastal habitats through the eyes of the experts working to protect them. This prize Includes:
      1. Exclusive access to a protected coastal site not typically open to the public
      2. Guided outing with Mass Audubon conservation staff
      3. Opportunities to learn about shorebird conservation and habitat restoration efforts
      4. Seasonal refreshments to enjoy along the shore
    • Fourth Place: Up Close & Wild
      Go behind the scenes for a memorable encounter with one of Mass Audubon's animal ambassadors. This unique experience offers a personal introduction to the birds, mammals, reptiles, and other wildlife that inspire conservation every day. This prize includes:
      1. A private animal ambassador experience
      2. Opportunities to meet and learn about resident wildlife
      3. Time with Mass Audubon educators and animal care staff
    • Slacker Quacker Prize: The final duck to cross the finish line will win free entry into the 2027 Duck Derby and a Mass Audubon Swag Bag filled with nature-inspired favorites from the Mass Audubon Shop.

      Winners must claim their prizes by October 1, 2027. Individual prize components may occur or be completed after that date as applicable.  
  8. Any expenses or arrangements beyond those described above are the responsibility of the prize winner.
  9. All arrangements required for prizes will be made by a member of Mass Audubon’s philanthropy team. 
  10. Prizes may be transferred but may not be sold. Any taxes associated with a prize are the responsibility of the winner.
  11. There will be no cash equivalent prizes in lieu of the designated prizes.
  12. Duck Derby is organized by Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary and supports Mass Audubon's wildlife sanctuaries, environmental education, conservation, and community engagement work across Southeast Massachusetts.