"City of New Isenburg issues advisory against providing food to wild animals"
In the city of Neu-Isenburg, feeding wild animals such as geese, pigeons, ducks, and fish is strictly prohibited according to the Hazard Prevention Regulation and § 30 of the Hessian Hunting Act. This measure is essential to prevent pollution, disruption of native species, and other negative consequences.
Instead, implementing sustainable alternatives can significantly benefit native species and the environment. Here are some ways to support wildlife while minimizing harm:
Sustainable Alternatives
1. Plant Native Gardens and Pocket Prairies
Encourage wildlife to forage naturally for food like worms, grubs, and caterpillars by planting native gardens and pocket prairies. This practice supports biodiversity, helps in nutrient cycling, and provides a healthier diet for animals.[1]
2. Provide Natural Water Sources
Ensure access to clean water for wildlife, especially as natural sources like springs and wetlands diminish. This practice supports the survival of various species, particularly during droughts.[1]
3. Use Wildlife-Proof Bins and Secure Food Waste
Prevent unintentional feeding by securing household waste and pet food. This practice reduces human-wildlife conflicts and the risk of attracting pests.[3]
4. Install Bird Baths and Houses
Attract birds with water and shelter, mimicking natural environments. This practice encourages natural behavior and reduces the need for artificial feeding.[3]
5. Support Natural Food Cycles
Let animals forage naturally for food like aquatic plants and invertebrates. This practice promotes balanced ecosystems and reduces dependency on human-provided food.[2]
Why These Alternatives Are Important
- Conservation of Native Species: By supporting natural food cycles, you help maintain the health and diversity of native species.
- Environmental Health: Reducing artificial feeding prevents water pollution and overcrowding, which can lead to disease spread and habitat degradation.[2]
- Human-Wildlife Conflict Reduction: Encouraging natural behavior reduces conflicts that arise from food dependency.[3]
In Neu-Isenburg, an increase in geese, raccoons, foxes, and wild boars has been observed. Feeding wild animals can cause them to lose their natural shyness and lead to aggression. Geese, in particular, cause significant pollution through droppings and damage green spaces through excessive grazing. They are also considered an invasive species and displace native bird species like ducks.
Excessive feeding can lead to a significant increase in certain species like pigeons or rats at the expense of other wild animals. This winter, targeted winter feeding of birds is recommended by nature conservation associations in Neu-Isenburg, while the city recommends a nature-friendly design of gardens and green spaces instead of feeding wild animals.
For more updates from the city and district of Offenbach, consider subscribing to a free newsletter. Appropriate feeding methods for birds can be found at the Nature Conservation Association Germany. Remember, every small act contributes to a healthier and more sustainable environment for all.
[1] Source 1 [2] Source 2 [3] Source 3
- What if we adopt sustainable living practices in our homes and gardens, such as planting native gardens, providing natural water sources, and installing bird baths and houses, instead of feeding wild animals like geese, pigeons, ducks, and fish? This could contribute to the practice of sustainable-living and help conserve environmental-science.
- By supporting native species through sustainable alternatives, we can prevent the negative consequences that come with feeding wild animals, including pollution, disruption of native species, and overcrowding, as highlighted in the science behind these issues.
- Adopting sustainable habits at home, such as implementing properly secured waste containers for both household waste and pet food, can reduce human-wildlife conflicts and the associated risks of attracting pests, contributing to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle for both humans and wildlife.
