Creator of giant duck decries fake versions  

大黄鸭之父现身杭州西湖 斥简单抄袭愚蠢

Hangzhou (ECNS) -- "Rubber duck fever" has spread in China since the giant sculpture toured Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour in May, spawning a flock of fake versions all over the mainland.

"Everyone should be an originator, rather than a copycat," said Florentijn Hofman, the duck's creator, while visiting Hangzhou's West Lake on Wednesday.

So far fake rubber ducks have been seen in Hangzhou, Wuhan, Tianjin, Quanzhou and Donggua.

"I am planning to 'destroy' all the copycat rubber ducks," said Hofman jokingly. "I hope my work can bring inspiration for people to create, rather than follow suit."

In response to speculation that his duck will come to West Lake this year, Hofman said it is a very beautiful spot with a profound cultural background, but that the duck would be a unique addition to the scenic spot.