Riverside Park, with its access to the Clinton River, may seem like a picturesque spot to feed the ducks, but before you reach for that bag of breadcrumbs, consider the detrimental effects of feeding waterfowl.

Feeding ducks at Riverside Park can have serious consequences for both the waterfowl and the environment. Artificial feeding leads to the congregation of large flocks, overwhelming natural ecosystems that can’t sustain such numbers. This overcrowding increases the risk of disease, aggression, and injury among the ducks, disrupting their natural behavior patterns.

Moreover, feeding ducks bread, chips, or popcorn provides little to no nutritional value and can harm their health. Ducklings, in particular, suffer as they miss out on crucial nutrients for proper growth and fail to learn essential foraging skills.

Leftover food contributes to pollution in the river. The presence of excess food also attracts unwanted guests like rats, posing additional health risks to both wildlife and park visitors. Furthermore, ducks become habituated to humans, increasing their vulnerability to predators and altering their migration patterns.

In 2021-2022, city staff observed a concerning trend: a large number of ducks decided to forgo their migratory instincts and make Riverside Park their permanent residence. Why bother moving on when a feast awaited them right here? Recognizing the ecological imbalance this was creating, the city updated park rules to prohibit feeding waterfowl or other wildlife in the parks. By the spring of 2022, the once abnormally large population of waterfowl at Riverside Park decreased by two-thirds, signaling a return to a more sustainable equilibrium within the park’s ecosystem. Big thanks to all our park visitors for your cooperation!

By refraining from feeding ducks at Riverside Park, we can help maintain the balance of its ecosystem and ensure the well-being of these beautiful creatures. It’s a small act that can make a big difference in preserving the beauty and biodiversity of our beloved park.

Lisa Passalacqua, Community Engagement Manager, and Stan Torres, Parks Supervisor