Did you know that bread is actually very harmful to ducks, geese and other wild animals? Bread quickly expands and fills up the stomachs of waterfowl/wild animals causing them to feel full. Because they feel full they no longer forage for the foods their bodies actually need causing them to become extremely nutrient deficient. Many of our geese and ducks often come in with a condition referred to as “Angel Wings.” Due to nutrient deficiencies the last joint of the wing is twisted with the wing feathers pointing out laterally, instead of lying against the body. It leaves them unable to fly and get away from predators. Unfortunately this is not a condition that can be fixed once the bones harden. While it is best to leave wild animals/water fowl to forage for their own food, if you are going to give them a treat stick to items like corn, oats, peas, or chopped lettuces and greens. Just make sure you leave the bag of bread and leftovers at home.
