Birders
Related: About this forumHere's what the city of Pearland is doing to address the growing Muscovy duck explosion
Residents can kill the ducks, but not feed them, city says
The bird sanctuary city of Pearland is encouraging residents to take matters into their own hands to address the growing problem of Muscovy ducks that have reportedly taken residence in the city.
Known for their red, warty-spotted faces and black, white, and brown plumage, Muscovy ducks are often considered a "problem duck." Feral populations of Muscovy ducks are known to be aggressive and can cause property damage, transmit disease and create problems through competition with native species, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
According to the city of Pearland, the ducks have been spotted throughout the city, often frequenting the neighborhoods of West Oaks and Westwood Village. In response to the growing population, the city has advised residents they can lawfully shoot or dispose of the animals themselves.
"The general public has the legal authority to address the ducksincluding Muscovy duck nests, eggs, and hybridson their property, without the requirement of a permit," the city stated in a Nov. 1 release.
Residents are allowed to shoot and kill the ducks on their own property if: they are allowed permission by their respective homeowner's association or landowner; if they are located outside of city limits; and if they use a nontoxic shot or nontoxic bullets, according to the release. The discharge of a firearm is "generally illegal" inside city limits.
https://www.lmtonline.com/neighborhood/pearland/news/article/Pearland-Muscovy-ducks-shooting-allowed-14825554.php
rampartc
(5,404 posts)they are great watchducks and lay good eggs. I was a little squeamish about eating my little friends, but they were over for many sunday dinners.
OregonBlue
(7,754 posts)cab67
(2,992 posts)Duck nests are surprisingly cryptic.
OregonBlue
(7,754 posts)cab67
(2,992 posts)...invasive species are a real problem. Eradication takes lives, but saves ecosystems.