NEW DUCK FEEDERS INSTALLED TO PROTECT LOCAL WILDLIFE AND IMPROVE VISITOR EXPERIENCE

In an effort to support the well-being of local wildlife and enhance visitor engagement, Newbury Town Council, in conjunction with the Feed Ducks Initiative, has installed new duck feeders at Lock Island and Victoria Park.

The initiative aims to provide a healthier diet for ducks and waterfowl while discouraging the feeding of unsuitable foods such as bread (especially bread which is past its best). Visitors will now be able to purchase a healthy and nutritious duck food from the new feeders. This environmentally conscious project seeks to protect both the wildlife and the water quality of the canal, as excess bread can contribute to pollution and disrupt natural ecosystems.

Ian Jee, Chair of the Council’s Green Spaces Working Group said, “We are delighted to introduce these new duck feeders, which will not only improve the health of our local ducks, swans and geese but also educate visitors on responsible feeding practices. Bread, while commonly given to ducks, lacks essential nutrients and can be potentially harmful to both the birds and the environment.”

The project has been made possible through collaboration with Community Matters - West Fields  and local community volunteers, who have kindly offered to support with filling the feeders. The cost of the feeders, including the installation, has been covered by the Feed Ducks Initiative, who will also give a percentage of the money raised to support volunteers maintaining our local green spaces, for example, the Secret Garden Project at Newbury Lock.

Sukey Russell-Hayward, spokesperson for Community Matters said, “So many people locally and visitors to Newbury love to feed the local ducks and swans, and we fully support this great initiative, which not only helps the birds and our precious canal environment but is also a great fundraising opportunity for local projects.”

Contact:

Cllr Ian Jee, Chair NTC Green Spaces Working Group ian.jee@newbury.gov.uk

James Heasman james.heasman@newbury.gov.uk 07775 434475