THE campaign by the Canal & River Trust to stop the public feeding ducks unhealthy bread has been successful.
The campaign was introduced last Spring, and figures released by the Trust show the success of the campaign to persuade people to feed the ducks healthier treats such as seeds, lettuce and peas which are more like a duck's natural diet.
Rather spoilt
However the Trust rather spoilt the information by yet another of its silly statistics, stating that there had been a 20% drop in feeding bread resulting in 80,000 fewer loaves, but then tells us that there are still 3.5 million loaves of bread thrown into canals and rivers, which of course simply does not equate with 80,000 being 20%.
But any drop in the amount of soggy bread in the waterways thrown to the ducks, that cause the build-up of bad nutrients, cause the build-up of bird populations, and encourage rats and the like is good news, with Peter Birch, National Environment Manager for the Canal & River Trust, enthusing:
Changing habits
"We're really pleased with the public response to our campaign so far and the way people are changing their duck feeding habits. However there's still work to be done and still too much bread is being dumped in the waterways. We need more people to get the word out and encourage everyone to feed the ducks sensibly.
"It only takes a few simple changes such as swapping bread for healthy food that is closer to a duck's natural diet—like oats, corn or peas. If everyone avoids going to the same duck-feeding hotspots and exercises portion control that would also make a big difference."
Quack Snack pack
The Trust is giving away a free booklet packed with tips on the right food to feed the ducks which includes lots of activities for children. To receive this, along with your free Quack Snack pouch to store your healthy duck treats, Text QUEST to 70123.