Ducks LOVE Peas!

While discussing how to get the ducks to get more comfortable with us my husband, Chris, suggested feeding them bread. We both grew up thinking that was OK because we saw others doing it so I guess we just assumed. I read a while back about how feeding bread is bad for ducks and other birds; if Chris still thought is was OK to feed them bread others probably still do, too. So, here's the low down on what is safe to feed ducks.

What Not to Feed Ducks

The most common items fed to ducks and waterfowl are also the least nutritious and most unhealthy: bread, chips, crackers, popcorn and other similar bread-type products. Feeding ducks bread is bad because the food has little nutritional value and can harm ducklings growth, pollute waterways and attract rodents and other pests. Similarly, ducks should not be fed and products that are spoiled or moldy; different types of mold can be fatal to waterfowl. 

Good Foods for Ducks

The best food  are those that provide the nutrients, minerals and vitamins the birds need for healthy growth and development. Many of those foods are similar to the natural seeds, grains and plants birds will forage on their own. As omnivorous birds, ducks will eat a great deal of different foods, and the best foods to offer ducks include:

• Cracked corn
• Wheat, barley, or similar grains
• Oats (uncooked; rolled or quick)
• Rice (cooked or uncooked)
• Milo
• Birdseed
• Grapes (cut in half)
• Frozen peas or corn (defrosted, no need to cook)
• Earthworms
• Mealworms (fresh or dried)
• Chopped lettuce or other greens or salad mixes
• Vegetable trimmings or peels (chopped)

Tips for Feeding Ducks

• Stop feeding if the birds appear uninterested or are leaving the food uneaten
• No matter what foods you provide, only offer foods in bite-sized pieces the birds can easily consume without choking or struggling.
• Litter can hurt birds in many ways, so be sure to dispose of all trash properly, including bags, twist ties and unsuitable scraps.
• Do not allow pets or children to chase or disturb the birds, particularly young birds or families that could become stressed or injured more easily

I tested the theory of peas today and our ducks went nuts for them. I hope this helps you become better aware about what is safe to feed birds. After all, I don't think any of us have the intention to hurt the birds we are trying to feed. I certainly do not want to harm our duck friends!