Ducks in Volgograd Park: Do They Need Help in Winter?
Ducks have been living for several years in the Dzerzhinsky District Park in Volgograd on 8th Air Army Street. The birds have grown noticeably fatter, which is causing local residents to worry about their safety during the winter period. Many believe that even with constant supplementary feeding, the ducks may not withstand the low temperatures.
«SOS! Ducks are freezing in the park on 8th Air Army Street. People are feeding them, but it»s very cold, they are lying on the snow, not even getting up, there are so many of them. How to help the ducks in such cold? We should at least make temporary shelters for them or put some hay under the fir trees,« Volgograd residents appeal.
However, experts assure there is no cause for panic. The ducks settled in this location back in 2022 and have successfully adapted. They share the territory with sparrows, pigeons, and crows, and city residents actively feed them, although sometimes with unsuitable products like bread.
For proper supplementary feeding of birds, it is recommended:
- use special bird feed from a pet store;
- offer vegetables and fruits, such as apples, carrots, or cabbage, chopped beforehand.
«It is possible to feed the birds. But not with bread! It»s yeasty and fraught with obesity. Moreover, a bird consuming it can lead to fermentation in the intestines, undermining the bird«s health and even affecting digestion. If you want to feed them, you can buy any bird feed from a pet store. Or treat them with vegetables — only you need to chop them finely or grate them beforehand,» said Father Vasilisk, a clergyman involved in animal rescue.
