WOODLEY wildfowl must be very happy.
Not only is spring just around the corner, but at Woodford Park Lake families can feed them from a new duck seed dispenser.
Visitors to the lake can buy a measure of food for the wildfowl from a machine installed by Woodley Town Council in partnership with The Feed Ducks Initiative.
Kevin Murray, Woodley Town Council town clerk, said: “This innovative solution not only promotes the health of our local wildlife by dispensing nutritionally appropriate feed but also furthers our climate commitment through its solar power operation and construction from recycled materials.
“It helps prevent ecosystem damage caused by inappropriate feeding while supporting our park’s future, and 10% of proceeds will be reinvested directly into Woodford Park.
“This partnership demonstrates our commitment to climate action, wildlife protection, and creating a better experience for all park visitors to enjoy.”
The machine delivers a small amount of seed suitable for ducks and other wildfowl, into a tray from where it can be scooped out.
Dispensing grains to hand, rather than delivering packages reduces littering and container waste.
It also controls the amount of seed the birds receive and leads to them being fed less bread, which doesn’t contain the right nutrition or calories and can make them unwell.
Healthy seed feed floats on the water surface, giving waterfowl enough time to eat it.
But bread can sink to the bottom of the lake where it can silt and pollute waterways, and increase algae growth.
Left on the ground it can attract vermin and create prime conditions for disease outbreaks that can threaten biodiversity and wildfowl.
The sustainable solar powered feeder, made from recycled plastics equivalent to 20,000 plastic bottles, is in line with Woodley Town Council’s climate commitment.
It has been provided free of charge and is fully maintained by The Feed Ducks Initiative, with 10% of the proceeds donated back to Woodley Town Council to invest in its parks and green spaces.
The machine, located at the start of the boardwalk, can be used from 7am until 10pm each day.
It takes contactless payments (no cash), and costs £1 per use.
People are asked to contact the town council if they have any problems using the feeder.
For more information, visit: woodley.gov.uk and feedducks.com
