Feed waterfowl
Who doesn’t love feeding the birds? Follow this simple activity to make sure you’re giving them a nutritious meal that helps them thrive.
Last edited: 21/03/2025
Before you get started
Why this is important
Feeding ducks and other water birds is a much-loved pastime (and it can be especially helpful when natural food is scarce).
By offering the right food, you’re helping to keep them healthy, happy, and strong.
Instructions
Feeding waterfowl
Food you should use
Swap bread for nutritious snacks like:
- Oats
- Peas
- Lettuce
- Seeds
- Cooked rice
These better options help birds get the nutrients they need - while keeping waterways cleaner, too!
Feeding tips
Test if food floats or sinks: Floating food is great for rivers, but if it sinks, place it safely on land.
Scatter food upstream: This gives birds time to reach it, especially on fast-flowing days.
Share the food fairly: Spread food evenly so all birds get a chance to eat.
Be gentle: Scatter food near the birds, but never throw it at them - it could startle or distress them.
celebrate your achievement
Together, We’re Making an Impact
Upload a photo of yourself feeding waterfowl, and we’ll add +1 to our impact counter - showing how many of you are making a collective difference. We may also feature your photo to inspire others, helping to show how we can all create a better world for animals.