When Derek Johnson adopted Ben Afquack as a one-day-old duckling, he never imagined he was bringing home a future social media sensation.
What started as a light-hearted joke quickly became something much bigger when Derek posted a photo of Ben that looked like the little duck was posing.
A friend turned the image into a parody account, labeling Ben as a “fitness model.
But Ben’s true talent—drumming—was discovered purely by accident.
From a Joke to a Drumming Sensation
One day, while playing around, Derek held Ben over a drum, and to his surprise, Ben began rhythmically slapping his webbed feet against it.
Intrigued by the unexpected rhythm, Derek recorded a video and posted it online.
What happened next was beyond Derek’s wildest imagination—the video went viral overnight, racking up thousands of views and shares. People couldn’t believe their eyes—a duck that could drum!
The combination of Ben’s natural rhythm and endearing personality quickly captured the hearts of viewers everywhere.
Fans started demanding more content, eager to see Ben perform again and again.
His Instagram account, originally created as a joke, became a hub for fans who couldn’t get enough of his drumming performances.
In no time, Ben developed a loyal following, making him a sensation not just in the pet community but also among musicians and animal lovers alike.
Ben’s rise to fame shows how a simple, playful moment can lead to something extraordinary.
His ability to keep a beat and entertain millions turned him into a beloved internet star.
On February 24, 2020, Ben Afquack set a Guinness World Record for the most Instagram followers for a duck.
Joining the Anaheim Ducks as Their Rally Duck
Ben’s rise to fame caught the attention of the Anaheim Ducks hockey team.
A content producer for the team stumbled across one of Ben’s videos and instantly knew that they needed him on their team—well, sort of.
The team brought Ben on board as their official rally duck, where he performs a drum solo after each team victory.
His performances have become a hit, drawing in new fans who tune in just to see Ben in action.
Ben Afquack’s journey from a day-old duckling to the official drummer for a hockey team is a testament to the power of social media and the joy that can come from unexpected talents.
His unique ability to drum has captivated audiences and turned him into a beloved online personality. For more of Ben’s drumming adventures, you can follow him on Instagram @minnesotaduck.