Help wildlife stay wild – and alive

You’ve seen it in movies: someone walking through a park, sprinkling handfuls of bird seed along the way or throwing breadcrumbs into a pond. 

What you don’t see in movies, however, is the irreversible damage that can cause. 

“We’ve received several reports of dead birds at Henderson Lake this year,” says Erin McIlwraith, Parks Operations Coordinator, City of Lethbridge. “Upon investigation, our team found a large amount of bird seed on the ground in the park. We want to urge the public not to feed wildlife because it does a lot more harm than good.” 

Wildlife and waterfowl never need supplemental food from humans. Their natural habitat provides ample food sources that are appropriate for their species. Food left by humans lacks nutritional value and increases their dependance on humans. 

“It isn't our responsibility to feed wildlife,” says Coreen Putman, Manager, Helen Schuler Nature Centre. “Birds are developing important skills as they forage. Once they learn to expect food from a non-natural source, they are more likely to suffer malnutrition and delay migration.” 

Dependance isn’t the only unintended consequence: 

• Feeding decreases their natural defense instincts and puts them at greater risk of injury and predation 
• Excess food, grain or seeds left behind can spoil and trigger illness when consumed by wildlife 
• Feeding contributes to overcrowding, which increases disease transmission for salmonella and avian influenza 

“Birds that become accustomed to handouts may lose their natural caution,” emphasizes Putman. “This leads to aggressive behaviour between birds, as well as towards children and pets.” 

“We want to make sure humans and wildlife can enjoy our parks equally and live in harmony,” says McIlwraith. “Next time you’re eating lunch in a park, please keep your food to yourself.” 

For tips on supporting wildlife without feeding them, visit the Helen Schuler Nature Centre's website. 

For Public Inquiries:  
Call or chat with 311 I Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.