This “carrying capacity” of the habitat can be artificially increased when supplemental food is added. In the wild, a particular lake or pond habitat can sustain a certain number of ducks and/or geese – there is a maximum number of individuals that can successfully reside there indefinitely, with enough food, water, and shelter. As a result, these birds may not feel motivated to continue foraging on natural foods of higher nutritional value. One more problem with bread products is that this type of food expands in water - and the stomach - which gives ducks and geese an artificial feeling that they are full. Well-meaning citizens feeding commercial duck, chicken, or turkey feed to avoid the “junk food” may be unintentionally creating this disorder. Although there are several theories regarding the causes of “angel wing”, some studies suggest that diets high in protein may be to blame. If caught in initial stages, waterfowl suffering from this condition may be treated with splints to guide bone growth in the correct position. “Angel wing” occurs when ducks and geese grow abnormally quickly the affected birds’ joints don’t fully form as the wing and feathers develop and the weight of the growing feathers rotates the tip of the bird’s wing. Affected birds are typically too weak to compete for food and defend themselves and are often the victims of aggressive attacks by other ducks and geese.Īnother common issue with ducks and geese in public parks is “angel wing” - a condition where the ends of an affected bird’s flight feathers are twisted upward. Birds with MBD are often so malformed they cannot fly and become dependent on handouts, completing a vicious cycle. Calcium also plays a crucial role in the formation of eggs/offspring, clotting ability, cardiovascular and neuromuscular function, and a variety of other metabolic activities. Birds with MBD have incredibly soft bones and joints that are often malformed and fractured these injuries are caused by an overall calcium deficiency in the body, which is linked to an inappropriate diet. Waterfowl in public parks are often admitted to wildlife rehabilitation centers with metabolic bone disease (MBD). While a single feeding of these “junk foods” may not harm waterfowl, it adds up! If everyone visiting a park “only” gives a few pieces of bread or crackers to ducks and geese, it quickly becomes the bulk of what wild waterfowl consume, and results in a variety of nutritional disorders. In contrast, foods commonly fed to waterfowl in public parks, such as bread, crackers, popcorn, and corn, are typically low in protein and essential nutrients and minerals (such as calcium and phosphorus). When eaten in combination, these foods are nutritionally balanced and provide everything a wild duck or goose needs to survive. Wild ducks and geese feed on a variety of grains and grasses, aquatic plants, and invertebrates, all naturally found in the wild. What many people don't realize is that bread, rolls, chips, and other human "snack food" items do not offer the proper nutrition that ducks and geese need - and that the act of feeding a diet heavy in breads and other empty carbohydrates can lead to severe health consequences and a variety of other problems.
#MIMIC DUCK GOOSE GOOSE DUCK FREE#
Heading to the park to feed the ducks is a very old and popular family pastime it’s a fun, free activity and a great way for parents and children to see and appreciate wildlife and nature. No crackers for quackers - help keep waterfowl healthy and wild!
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