The ODT has highlighted how Otago University’s reputation was damaged by a story broken in early October about students biting the legs off live ducks. Their most recent update, published November 30 behind a paywall, included internal communications, aghast testimony from staff and members of the public, and speculation about the University’s long-term reputation. There has been “complete radio silence” on campus, said the Proctor, in a quote the ODT chose not to include. The University of Otago, OUSA, Police, and the Department of Conservation have been unable to corroborate the claims of duck-biting, according to a University spokesperson. As evidenced by the 67 pages of communications, the story has clearly impacted public perception of the University and the students who call it home.
