Ducks wandering from the city park to the Grote Markt have caught the attention of Poperinge residents. On 2025-05-03 14:47:00, Ewoud Notebaert, the alderman for Animal Welfare (CD&V), confirmed these frequent visits. The city park offers ducks ample food like grass, duckweed, tiny water creatures, and low plants, making it an ideal habitat.
- Eenden wandelen vaak van stadspark naar markt
- Stadspark biedt voedsel zoals gras en waterdiertjes
- Voeden met brood veroorzaakt spijsverteringsproblemen
- Voer eenden granen, zaden of groenten
- Voedselresten trekken ongedierte zoals ratten aan
- Dieren voeren is alleen toegestaan bij borden
But why do these ducks head to the bustling Grote Markt? Notebaert suggests it might be the refreshing splash from the market’s fountains that attracts them. However, feeding ducks on the terraces is discouraged due to health risks and hygiene concerns. What should locals know about interacting with these urban visitors? Let’s explore the guidelines and implications.
Why is feeding ducks discouraged despite their presence in popular public spaces? Feeding bread can cause digestive problems as it swells in their stomachs. Moreover, leftover food attracts pests like rats, posing a health risk. Should residents feed ducks responsibly or avoid it altogether? Consider these points:
- Only feed ducks where official signs allow it; Poperinge has no such designated areas.
- Avoid bread; opt for grains, seed mixes, or leafy greens like lettuce instead.
- Feed in moderation to prevent leftover food attracting vermin.
- Recognize that ducks’ natural diet in the park sustains them well without human intervention.
As ducks continue their curious visits to the Grote Markt, locals and visitors alike are encouraged to respect feeding guidelines. Could responsible behaviour ensure these feathered friends remain a charming part of Poperinge’s city life without causing unintended harm?
