The Town of Aurora is reminding residents that feeding bread, popcorn, crackers and other human foods to ducks, geese, swans and other birds can cause severe issues for their health and can cause Angel Wing.
Angel Wing is a serious condition that affects waterfowl and is directly linked to the animals being fed bread and other high-starch foods. This disease is characterized by a deformity of the wing structure, where the feathers twist and curl outward, making it impossible for the bird to fly. The primary cause of Angel Wing is the consumption of excessive amounts of high-energy, low-nutrient foods, such as bread, which disrupts the normal development of the wing feathers.
Birds with Angel Wing cannot fly, making them vulnerable to predators and severely limiting their ability to find food and migrate. This condition often leads to poor nutrition and ineffective foraging, resulting in additional health problems and increased mortality rates.
Residents are urged to avoid feeding these birds and just enjoy watching them in their natural habitats instead. If you spot a bird with deformed wings or signs of weakness, please contact Animal Services at 1-877-979-7297.
By following these guidelines and spreading awareness, residents of Aurora can play a vital role in protecting local wildlife and preserving the health of our natural ecosystems.
