What to feed ducks? Bread is the worst thing you can throw them. The results can be tragic

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Feeding birds is an activity that many of us witness, for example, during a walk in the park. As it turns out, such behavior can lead to many negative consequences. Ducks and other birds can be fed, but not all year round. If the temperatures do not fall below zero and the lakes are not covered with ice, the birds have unlimited access to their natural food. In their menu, it is in vain to look for the bread that is popularly served to them. Waterfowl mostly feed on aquatic plants, snails, insect larvae and seeds. Frequent feeding may end up with the fact that they will no longer rely on their natural diet, but on food provided by humans.

What to feed ducks and how? These tips matter

During a seemingly simple activity, it is worth keeping a few things in mind. Joanna Rosenberger from points out to do not hand feed the birds. The point is not to encourage wild animals to contact humans, which should keep their distance for their own safety. In addition, the expert emphasizes that we should avoid feeding waterfowl in places where birds are exposed to predators and have limited escape opportunities.

Also remember not to throw food into the water. Once it’s in it, it’s much easier to break down. Water is also polluted. In addition, do not throw large pieces of food, try to tear them into smaller pieces. Often birds are unable to eat them or may choke. The best food for ducks and other waterfowl is oats, corn, wheat and vegetables such as carrots, boiled potatoes or cabbage.

Feeding ducks with bread. The expert warns against the consequences

According to Dr. Joanna Rosenberger, birds should not be fed with “fast food”, salted, perishable or already spoiled foods. The expert also referred to the popular throwing of various types of bread at e.g. ducks.

We definitely avoid serving bread.

The reason is kvass, which is formed during the digestion of food. It contributes to the acidification of the digestive system of birds, thus leading to dangerous gastric acidosis in animals. What’s more, salt, which is often found in the composition of bread, will disturb the body’s water balance. Feeding birds, including ducks, with bread consequently leads to serious diseases of the digestive system, diabetes, kidney or joint diseases, which may end in a fatal disease called “angel’s wing” and even death.