Responsible feeding: How to protect our waterfowl!

Responsible feeding: How to protect our waterfowl!

In recent weeks, the Aichach-Friedberg district office has received an increasing number of inquiries from citizens about the correct behavior towards waterfowl and migratory birds. These inquiries particularly often relate to feeding at lakes, ponds and other bodies of water in public spaces. In order to educate citizens about the topic, the district office has created an information sheet that summarizes the most important rules and instructions for feeding waterfowl. The aim is to promote responsible behavior when dealing with wild birds and to eliminate misunderstandings. Community Merchandise reports.

Feeding waterfowl, especially ducks, is a popular activity that brings joy to many families. People often gather on the banks of water to feed bread to ducks. But these seemingly harmless activities have far-reaching negative consequences. Experts warn that bread is unsuitable as food for ducks as it swells in the animals' stomachs and can cause many health problems. The salt in the bread disrupts the birds' metabolism and can even be fatal in the long term. In addition, bread for ducks is similar to junk food - it is low in nutrients and can lead to dependence on human food. Foundation for Nature Conservation highlights.

Negative impact on nature

In addition, feeding has negative effects on the natural communities. Not only does it promote competitive stress between the birds, but it also reduces their natural fear of people. This increases the risk that the animals will end up in traffic or be attacked by dogs running loose. In addition, feeding attracts other animals such as rails and city pigeons, which can disrupt the ecological balance. In the long term, this leads to increased disease transmission among wildlife and pollutes waterways. Disregarded bread and duck droppings damage the water by promoting algae growth and depleting oxygen, which can damage plants and cause water to overturn. For these reasons, many cities, including Berlin, advise against feeding ducks and instead recommend enjoying the animals from a distance. Berlin.de also addresses this issue.

Feeding should be strictly avoided in areas with heavily frequented waterfowl. Ducks find enough food in nature, including aquatic plants, frog spawn, worms and insects. Instead of feeding the birds, observations of their natural behavior can be made, which is a beautiful nature experience for both children and adults. Promoting ecological balance and protecting natural habitats are crucial for maintaining a rich birdlife.