History of Rubber Ducks

Rubber ducks were first made in the early 1800's at the time when other rubber toys were developed. At that time rubber ducks were made of hard rubber and did not squeak. Rubber ducks evolved into squeaking, floating toys. Rubber ducks are most commonly used at bath time but can also be used as toys for dogs.

The song "Rubber Duckie", sung by Ernie from Sesame Street, helped make rubber ducks massively popular in the USA and other parts of the world.

It has been reported that Queen Elizabeth II has a rubber duck in her bath room. The rubber duck in question has an inflatable crown.

For many people, Rubber ducks are collector's items. A large number of different types of rubber ducks has developed, such as devil ducks, Santa ducks, dead ducks, and ducks the imitate real people like Elvis. The world record for the most rubber ducks is 2,587.

Rubber duck races have become hugely popular all over the world, with rubber ducks being placed in a lake, river or pond and allowed to float through a course. The winner is the rubber duck that passes the finish line first. In 2006, London had its first ever rubber duck charity race. 20,000 ducks raced from Battersea Park. Proceeds went to Nightingale House, which is a care home for the elderly in south-west London.

In the United States, races like the Rubber Duck Derby are very popular and raise millions for charity. The Rubber Duck Derby has raised over $140 million for charity.

Melissa George is the editor of Rubber Ducks, a website dedicated to the wonderful world of rubber ducks.

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