The legality of owning certain animals as pets in generally up to the Provincial Government. Alberta has a long list of controlled animals.

When it comes to certain Wildlife like ducks, there is a bit more to it.

Is it legal to own a pet duck in Alberta?

You can not own a pet duck in Alberta.

Part 2 of the Alberta Controlled Animals list refers you to the Migratory Birds Convention Act of Canada.

Source

So then what does the Canada Migratory Birds Act say?

Anatidae, or waterfowl (ducks, geese and swans) are covered under the federal migratory act. Provinces can have additional laws and regulations.

Read the Canada Migratory Convention Act here.

In Summary

• Alberta has a controlled animals list. You can check the legality of most animals against this list.
• Duck and other migratory birds are a special case. Canada has federal laws that co-operate with the USA.
• The Canada Migratory Birds Convention Act dictates that you can not have a pet duck without permits and special permissions in Alberta, and across the country.
• You can’t own a duck in Alberta, but there are exotic pets in Alberta you can have as pets.