FOLK ASKED NOT TO FEED BREAD TO DUCKS AND SWANS IN BRIGG

 

The popular Brigg Matters glossy magazine has a campaign aimed at the many people who like to feed ducks and swans that live on the Old River Ancholme near the town centre.
The not-for-profit community publication's name is on distinctive signs fixed to riverside railings in support of the "initiative."
The message to the general public is: "Please do not feed ducks or swans with bread!"
The signs suggest that feeding large quantities of bread can stop these birds from eating a natural, balanced diet.
"White bread, in particular, has no real nutritional value, so while birds may find it tasty, the danger is that they will fill up on it instead of other foods that would be more beneficial to them," says the message on the signs.
"It can also cause disease, illnesses, deformities as well as algal blooms in the water."
People are being advised that they can make up their own mix of duck food using "natural treats" like oats, grapes, corn, cooked rice and de-frosted frozen peas.
The message advises: "You can purchase an approved mix of food from Brians DIY Store, 24 Wrawby Street, and  The Pet Shop, 58 Wrawby Street."
Over many years Brigg people will have seen many families with young children feeding ducks and swans close to the County Bridge, particularly at weekends. A number of senior citizens also give bread to the birds.
The next issue of Brigg Matters Magazine will be distributed free to households and businesses shortly.

PICTURED: Ducks and swans hoping to be fed on the Old River Ancholme in Brigg, and one of the new  signs advising people against feeding bread to  water birds.