A recent viral video making the rounds on social media shows an enchanting sight, where hundreds of ducks are waddling in neat formation through a lush and water-filled paddy field in Kerala. It is a moment that is rooted in tradition, offering a glimpse into a centuries-old farming practice that blends nature, agriculture, and community.
What seems like a charming rural spectacle is, in fact, an important part of Kerala’s rice farming ecosystem. After the paddy harvest, particularly in areas like the Thrissur Kole wetlands, duck farmers bring their flocks to the fields to graze.
These wetlands, which are recognised internationally under the Ramsar Convention for their ecological importance, temporarily turn into shallow lakes after the harvest.
As water is slowly drained in preparation for the next crop cycle, ducks are released into the fields, and this is when the magic happens.
The ducks are not just there for show. They serve a key agricultural role. As they wade through the muddy fields, they feast on leftover grains of rice, weeds, and a variety of worms. This natural foraging helps clean the fields, manage pests, and reduce weed growth without the need for chemical interventions.
In doing so, the ducks also contribute to soil health. Their droppings act as natural fertiliser, rich in nitrogen, gently enriching the land in preparation for the next round of cultivation.
The system is well-timed and methodical. Ducks are introduced immediately after the harvest and are allowed to graze for a few weeks.
Once new seedlings are planted, the birds return for a shorter period, helping clear weeds and gently stirring the topsoil. It is a natural form of ploughing that helps mix in any organic manure already added by the farmers.
This age-old practice is not just limited to local duck farmers. Many bring their flocks in trucks from other districts to participate in this seasonal migration of birds.
While some regions, such as Alappuzha, are more cautious about the ducks’ impact on the field structures, their presence benefits both the land and the farmers.
In a time when sustainable and organic farming methods are gaining global attention, this charming viral video does more than warm hearts. It reminds us of the harmony that can exist between nature and agriculture.
Through this beautiful and practical tradition, Kerala continues to set an example of how farming can be both ecologically responsible and rooted in cultural heritage.
Edited by Vidya Gowri; Video courtesy Ashik Aseem
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