Why You Shouldn't Feed Geese Bread: Waltham Animal Control

WALTHAM,MA — A video of an adult goose at Calvary Cemetery with an obvious problem with his wing or feathers was posted to the Waltham Animal Control Facebook this afternoon.

The caption reads: "This is caused by feeding the waterfowl junk food. Stop feeding them bread etc. Feed them choices that will not cause this incurable condition. If you want to prevent this, feed them food foods like cracked corn, greens, grapes cut in half or bird seed!"

The animal control officer noted the goose would survive as long as he's able to avoid predators or doesn't have to fly anywhere else in the winter to find food.

If this shocks you, you're not alone. For many feeding ducks and geese and even swan or other water fowl by the river's edge is something they've always done. The the animals seem to like it, getting excited and racing for some of the tidbits of food, often stale bread, crackers or popcorn then hurry back for more.

But what most people don’t realize is that feeding ducks and geese can lead to their death, according to the Humane Society.

“Angel wing” is a condition young waterfowl can develop because of a poor diet. Birds with the condition, such as the goose at Calvery Cemetery, have wings that unnaturally twist outward instead of lying flat, against the bird’s body. Birds with angel wing can’t fly.

And that means it's harder for them to get away from predators or cars or bad weather. And it's all because of a bad diet, say experts.

Wildlife rehabilitation centers across the country see a large number of geese, ducks and swans suffering from angel wing. If caught early enough, some birds can be helped.

So that's where individuals come in.

"Not feeding waterfowl bread, crackers and similar foods is the best way for people to prevent angel wing. Know the effect your food might have on waterfowl and make wise choices," said Deborah Millman, director of The Fund for Animals Cape Wildlife Center in Barnstable in a statement.

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