3D-Printed Foot Lets Crippled Duck Walk Again

Born with a backwards left foot last November, Buttercup the duck had never been able to walk normally. But that was until Sunday, when thanks to 3D printing technology, Buttercup was fitted with a custom-designed silicone foot that has him up and walking like a duck.

The folks at the Feathered Angels Waterfowl Sanctuary in Tennessee have been taking care of Buttercup and chronicling his journey on Facebook. They worked with 3D-printing company NovaCopy to print a replica of Buttercup's sister's left foot. Using that copy, the sanctuary was able to mold a silicone foot for Buttercup that could fit perfectly.

On Sunday, the silicone foot was attached to a custom-fit sock on Buttercup using a nylon retaining screw, and the duck was able to walk again. Watch Buttercup being fitted with the foot: