A benefit to living near William Land Park is taking your “littles” out to feed the ducks. It’s a long-time tradition resulting in cherished photos and a personal connection with local wildlife. Normally, you might grab a bag of bread or crackers, but did you know these are the least nutritional foods for waterfowl? In fact, they can be harmful.
Although ducks usually forage on their own by eating bugs and grass, how can you resist walking your children the park for a fun and affordable activity like feeding the ducks? You don’t have to resist, instead, re-think. Consider teaching your children how to feed water birds in a fun, sustainable and smart way. Plan a “duck picnic” and bring foods that are nutritional and easy for ducks and geese to eat.
Great food options include:
Birdseed Cracked Corn Chicken Scratch
Uncooked Rice (white or brown) Defrosted Peas and Corn
Remember to avoid throwing food in the water and stick to tossing it on the ground. This helps with the maintenance of the pond and makes it easier for ducks too.
Here’s a good video about how to pack your duck picnic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ug4sc9iwH6o
This is a link to The Spruce with more information about good and bad options for duck treats. It includes a cute video to share with your kids: https://www.thespruce.com/what-to-feed-ducks-386584
And if you see an injured duck or goose, please contact Judy McClaver, our “Lady of the Lake.” Judy volunteers her time to rescue injured ducks and geese in our parks. She also accepts donations and works with other volunteers: https://landpark.wpengine.com/help-the-lady-of-the-lake-raise-awareness-to-save-the-ducks/.
The LPCA would like to thank the City of Sacramento for posting new No Fishing signs around our duck ponds. Although the No Fishing signs are located next to the ponds, some people ignore the rules. In the process, thoughtless folks leave fishing line and hooks behind. This carelessness is one of the main reasons for duck and goose injuries in Land Park. It is also why the No Fishing rules are in place.
If you happen to locate any abandoned fishing line, hooks or gear, please be a good neighbor. Pick it up and throw away in one of the park trashcans (if you can do this safely).
Currently, the Department of Fish & Game only stock fish in two Sacramento parks. They are Granite Regional Park and North Natomas Regional Park. People are encouraged to enjoy those parks for their fishing adventures.