By Tatum Hearn
Daily walks at River Road Park are filled with nature, neighbors, and an abundance of friendly and curious creatures. However, you might have noticed something new: “Please Do Not Feed the Wildlife” signs placed along the pathway of the Cibolo Trail.
Like most wild animals, these creatures are resourceful and will fend for themselves. But they will also never say no to a meal they don’t have to work for.
Due to the historically high volume of ducks and turtles, the Parks and Recreation Department has installed temporary signs at the park to discourage visitors from feeding the wildlife. The addition comes after the City of Boerne completed the $2.4 million improvements to the park.
“Feeding them human food leads to diseases and dependence on unhealthy food sources,” Parks and Recreation Director Lissette Jimenez said. “It may seem like you’re doing a service or being kind, but please refrain from feeding the animals.”
Deformities and internal issues can also result from feeding them, according to Animal Care Services Supervisor Stefanie Fisher.
“Fish and Wildlife suggests that we not feed the wildlife because they don’t receive the nutrients they need to survive,” Fisher said. “For example, the ‘Angel Wing’ deformity in ducks and geese is caused by people feeding them bread. Bread and rice are not good substitutes for their normal diet.”
In addition to being harmful to the animals, feeding them is also detrimental to our ecosystem. When animals are constantly fed, it encourages more ducks and turtles to congregate, leading to overcrowding. Overcrowding results in extra animal excrement, which degrades the water quality of our creek.
Ultimately, the best way to enjoy the wildlife and the trail is by simply watching and admiring the animals from a distance. Our goal is to provide a safe environment not only for our visitors but also for the animals that call River Road Park their home.
