Sophia is a Pekin duck, and his breed is often used for meat. However, Sophia had a guardian who cared for him and covered the cost of surgery to remove part of his infected toe. Now lovingly known as “Guy Sofia” around our team, he came to Farm Sanctuary just weeks ago. Lemongrass was suffering from a broken leg when found as one of four ducks found abandoned in a driveway belonging to the neighbor of one of our staff members in 2021. 

Now, in the shared space where they’re healing, Lemongrass and Sophia choose to spend much of their time very close to each other, snuggling up side by side. Sophia loves his new companion and turns to his buddy for support.

Guy Sophia and Lemongrass listen to classical guitar music and are big fans of another duo you may have heard of, Simon & Garfunkel. 

Their caregivers say they’re gentle and inquisitive birds who love to sit together as they chat, eat, and preen. 

Now that Sophia has healed enough for a quick dip, these two can be found in their kiddie pool together, eating snacks side by side.

Guy Sophia and Lemongrass are lovable ambassadors for all farm animals and a heartwarming example of the depth of their emotional lives and the friendships they form.

Lemongrass has gained a new companion and the confidence and joy from helping others. Sophia has found comfort and understanding–someone happy to move at his pace and share sweet moments.

That’s the kind of transformative healing that sanctuary brings. At Farm Sanctuary, we give animals the chance to live and the freedom to be themselves. Some, like Lemongrass, choose to heal the hearts of their fellow rescued animals. They build friendships, pick families, and comfort each other.

Lemongrass is helping Sophia live his best life. Don’t we all want a best friend like that?

July 2024 update: We were sad to say goodbye to our friend Sophia duck this month. Yet, we remain thankful that he got to experience the joy of sanctuary and be surrounded by love in his final weeks of life, including the love of his best friend, Lemongrass.