Are ducks capable of feeling gratitude?

Well, I know they are capable of sorrow and grief when it comes to its mate or offspring.

About a week ago, while I was walking (I have recently re-developed bursitis in my ankles after a mild injury)—I saw a duck or goose in obvious distress. Sorrow sounds the same among all species as a universal distress call.

During some recent, torrential rains about six ducklings had gone down into the storm sewer. I was not able to remove the grate, but called my brother in law, and by the time we were trying to remove the grate, the police showed. And we were able to remove the grate.

I was the only one willing to go down into the infestation of cockroaches. But I got the six ducklings out. It was risky because I do not have good footing, and am terribly afraid of spiders, snakes, and slipping.

Once the six ducklings were out, the mother just walked away with the ducklings in tow. I’m sure that was all she cared about, or needed to. But I wonder if ducks and geese are able to appreciate the help received from another species.