At Moana Nursery, we love seeing families enjoy a day at the park or pond, especially when they take the time to feed the local ducks and waterfowl. It’s a fun activity that allows us to connect with nature, but it’s important to do so responsibly. While tossing out some breadcrumbs or old popcorn may seem like a harmless way to feed the ducks, it can actually do more harm than good.

The Controversy

Feeding ducks foods like bread, chips, or popcorn might be a common practice, but wildlife experts caution against it. These foods are not only unhealthy for ducks, but they can also contribute to malnutrition and other long term health issues in the waterfowl population. Giving them old bread is especially dangerous as mold can be deadly to waterfowl. Additionally, leftover processed food that the ducks don’t eat is left to rot in the water or along the shores, which can lead to toxic algae growth, attract pests like rats, and create water pollution, making it harder for the ducks and other local wildlife to thrive.

Why Cracked Corn?

Instead of turning to your pantry for leftover snacks, we invite you to visit us at Moana Nursery and pick up a free bag of cracked corn. Cracked corn is a healthier alternative that provides ducks with the nutrients they need without the risks presented by feeding processed foods. It’s a great way to support local wildlife and ensure they’re getting a more balanced diet.

Respecting Local Regulations

While feeding the ducks is a lovely activity, it’s important to respect local park regulations. Many parks have designated feeding areas to help control where and how wildlife is fed. Always feed the ducks in these specific spots to avoid causing disturbances in other parts of the park or putting the ducks at risk of being hit by vehicles or attacked by dogs. By following these rules, we can ensure that the local wildlife remains safe and healthy.

So, next time you’re out for a walk and spot some hungry ducks, stop by Moana Nursery for a bag of cracked corn. It’s a simple, fun way to enjoy nature responsibly, and it helps the ducks and waterfowl get the nutrition they need to stay strong and healthy. Let’s all work together to keep our local wildlife happy and thriving!