The viral video of a duck (or sometimes identified as a cygnet/swan) "feeding" fish is a popular example of unexpected animal behavior, often interpreted as an act of compassion or "animality". However, according to experts and observers, this action is driven by instinct, not altruism.

Here is the breakdown of what is actually happening in those videos:

Dabbling and Wetting Food: Ducks (and waterfowls) have a natural habit of "dabbling," where they dip their food into water to make it easier to swallow, as they need water to digest dry food.The Fish are Stealing, Not Being Fed: The fish are simply taking advantage of the food scraps that fall out of the duck's mouth or Beak as the duck attempts to eat, not receiving a thoughtful handout.

Natural Instinct: While it appears to be a heartwarming moment of cross-species friendship, it is not in a bird's instinct to feed other species.