Enjoying Wildlife Responsibly

Do you enjoy watching wildlife, such as squirrels, ducks, and geese? It is important to know that feeding these animals human food can harm their health and the environment. These animals are not well adapted to a diet of bread and grains. When they consume these foods, they can become sick, overweight, and unable to fly. For the health and safety of everyone, please do not feed wildlife in city parks.

Urban Birding - Learn to Birdwatch

Instead of feeding ducks and geese, consider birdwatching. The City of Salem’s Park Ranger offers free bird-watching tours on the first Saturday of each month. Register here for Urban Birding, or if you want more information, contact the Park Ranger at MZieker@cityofsalem.net.

Why Feeding Wildlife is Harmful

Squirrels may seem cute and may approach you for food, but feeding them can make them too comfortable around people. This can lead to aggressive behavior, and they may even bite. Additionally, when animals gather in large numbers due to feeding, their waste can pollute local streams and increase bacteria levels, which is harmful to both wildlife and humans.

Two Ways to Help Local Wildlife

1. Secure Food Sources: Make sure to secure your garbage, compost piles, and pet food to avoid attracting wildlife to your home.
2. Create Backyard Habitats: Use native plants in your backyard to create habitats that provide the right food sources for local wildlife.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy wildlife responsibly while helping to protect their health and our environment.

Nearby Places to Appreciate Birds in a Natural Environment

• Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge
• Minto-Brown Island Park
• Fairview Wetlands
• Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge
• Bird Alliance of Oregon
• Salem Audubon Society