Feeding ducks in Nocton

Keep Nocton duck population healthy

I have been asked by a local resident to revisit the subject of feeding ducks. The last blog on this matter was back in April 2013, so it is probably time for a reminder on good/bad practice.

It is this time of the year when our beck and surrounding waterways will soon be populated with little ducklings. To avoid unhealthy over-crowding of our bird population, be aware that distributing too much food causes a build up of bad nutrients which can spread disease and encourage rats

I know many residents on Wellhead Lane and also on Potterhanworth Rd feed our feathered friends on a regular basis. You may like the information below to refresh your knowledge on the latest advice. If however you would like to speak to someone more knowledgeable, we are fortunate to have a local resident who fosters and keeps her own wildfowl and can provide excellent guidance.

PLEASE DON'T distribute inappropriate and excessive food to our ducks.

Six things you possibly didn't know you could feed ducks

Sweetcorn; Peas; Lettuce; Oats; Seeds; Rice = GOOD
Bread = BAD

https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/keeping-our-ducks-healthy/six-things-you-didnt-know-you-could-feed-ducks

No dough - ever!

New data shows a 20% drop in the number of people feeding ducks bread. With the official start of spring and at a time when thousands of new ducklings are due to hatch in Nocton, please continue the good work and spread the word.

https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/keeping-our-ducks-healthy

Be warned

We do not want to get into a position where our ducks become a problem - see this article from Wolsingham Parish Council: 'Ducks, attractive or not?'

Problem Birds

'This page is designed to give the reader a brief overview of the birds that most commonly cause problems, together with photographs that will help identify the species in question.'

http://www.picasuk.com/problem_birds.html