Famous duck of the University of York, Long Boi, presumed dead

A duck that caused a stir on the Internet is presumed dead after being missing for two months.

The University of York said it was “forced to conclude” that the mallard-Indian Runner cross, known as “Long Boi” due to its large stature, had died.

Long Boi arrived on campus in 2019 and went viral after being mistakenly described in a Reddit post as “the largest mallard that ever lived… over 3 feet tall.”

It was later confirmed that the duck was about 70 cm tall.

During his time on campus, Long Boi brought joy to York staff, students, alumni and visitors

University of York

In a statement shared on its social media channels, the university paid tribute to the duck, adding that it hoped students “will focus on celebrating his life and remembering the time he spent with us.”

The statement said: “During his time on campus, Long Boi brought joy to York staff, students, alumni and visitors.

“Our beautiful campus and our amazing facilities team have enabled him to live a fulfilling life during the four years he has lived with us.

“We continue to be grateful for the incredible fan base that has dedicated their time, energy and talent to celebrating Long Boi and the diverse wildlife here on campus.”

Tom Howes, 21, who got a tattoo of Long Boi in April during a trip to Portugal with his university’s volleyball club, said he still hopes the duck will return.

He told the PA news agency: “I still think he’ll be back in about four months. I study ecology so I know migratory patterns. He’s probably gone off to find a mate and reproduce, or maybe he’s just bored with the habitat.”

“The day his disappearance was announced was very ominous. It was like thunder and lightning on campus. I think people will come to terms with it, today’s announcement has brought some closure.”

The fame of the university’s unofficial mascot spread around the world and James Corden even mentioned him on the “Late Late Show” when he said, “Put a trench coat on this duck and it looks like two ducks trying to get into an R-rated movie.”

York’s Students’ Union said it was working to organise a “fitting tribute” to the duck and asked students to look out for an official fundraising campaign.

Mr. Howes added that he would like to erect a statue of Long Boi to commemorate his time on campus.

He said: “He’s more of a symbol anyway, he was very easy to find, most people considered him the mascot of the university, so it doesn’t take much to think of him. He will definitely live on.”