FridayOL

Didcot, Oxfordshire – The Didcot Town Council is appealing to local residents to cease feeding ducks and geese at Ladygrove Lake, citing growing concerns over public health and the lake's delicate ecosystem. The council’s request comes as the population of waterfowl at the lake has swelled, leading to an increase in droppings and a situation they describe as “unsustainable.”

For years, Ladygrove Lake has been a popular spot for locals to enjoy the beauty of nature and interact with the resident ducks and geese. However, the council has observed a significant rise in the number of birds attracted to the area, largely due to consistent feeding by well-meaning individuals. This influx of birds has created a number of challenges.

“We understand people enjoy feeding the ducks, but the sheer number of birds now congregating at Ladygrove Lake is causing problems,” explains a spokesperson for Didcot Town Council. “The increased droppings pose a potential health hazard, particularly for children and pets who frequent the area. Furthermore, the growing population of geese is placing a strain on the lake’s resources and upsetting the natural balance of the environment.”

The council emphasizes that the current situation is not sustainable. An overpopulation of geese can lead to increased competition for food and habitat, impacting the overall health of the flock and potentially damaging the lake’s vegetation. Moreover, the sheer volume of waste produced contributes to water pollution and can affect the lake’s water quality.

Why is feeding ducks harmful? While seemingly harmless, feeding ducks and geese can have several negative consequences:

• Nutritional Imbalance: Human food is often not suitable for waterfowl and can lead to malnutrition and health problems.
• Overpopulation: Easy access to food encourages larger populations, exceeding the lake’s carrying capacity.
• Environmental Pollution: Increased droppings contaminate the water and surrounding areas.
• Reduced Natural Foraging: Ducks and geese become reliant on handouts and lose their natural foraging skills.

The Didcot Town Council is urging residents to respect the environment and refrain from feeding the birds at Ladygrove Lake. They encourage people to enjoy the lake’s natural beauty without interfering with the local wildlife. The council is exploring long-term solutions to manage the waterfowl population and maintain the health and integrity of Ladygrove Lake for the benefit of the entire community.

For more information and updates, please visit the Didcot Town Council website or contact their offices directly.