Maine Officials Are Warning the Public To Stop Feeding the Geese



The Portland Parks Department in Maine is putting out an alert, warning the public to stop feeding the geese. Canada geese often fly south for the winter, but a deformity called “angel wing” makes it impossible for the birds to fly. Angel wing syndrome is the result of the last joint of the wing being twisted, causing the feathers to point away from the body. This is a permanent, yet preventable, deformity, which makes the geese incapable of migrating. Veterinarians say the primary cause of angel wing is people feeding the waterfowl excessive amounts of bread, carbs and proteins. Maine Audubon Staff Naturalist Doug Hitchcock explained that it’s a classic pastime of people to grab a bag of bread and go to the park to feed the geese. While he acknowledges that people are trying to be kind in feeding the birds, he warns that they’re doing more harm than good. “Bad nutrition leads to this deformity, mostly in male birds. The feathers are growing faster than the bones that should be supporting that weight.” said Hitchcock. “Do not feed” signs have been posted in Portland and South Portland parks where geese and ducks are prevalent. Hitchcock suggests that if you must feed the waterfowl, feed them foods like kale, lettuce, seeds and grapes. “The more practical solution is to stop feeding ducks and geese, who are well fed without your help,” said Hitchcock.