Solar-powered feeder introduced in Staffordshire park to support duck health

A solar-powered bird feeder has been installed in a Staffordshire park with the aim of encouraging visitors to feed ducks responsibly. Lichfield District Council, the authority behind this initiative, stated its intention to deter people from offering bread, which can be detrimental to ducks and contribute to water contamination. The council announced that the new dispenser at Beacon Park will enable visitors to purchase specially-formulated duck feed for £1.50 per portion. The local community organization, Lichfield Litter Legends, will be responsible for keeping the dispenser stocked and will receive 10% of the proceeds to support their ongoing work. Councillor Phil Whitehouse, the cabinet member for parks, commented that this project would benefit wildlife and help maintain the cleanliness of public areas. He stated, “Bread might seem harmless, but it is actually detrimental to ducks’ health and the environment.” He further explained, “The safety of all park users and animals is of paramount importance and the dispenser also discourages visitors from bringing food for the ducks which is dangerous to other species, such as grapes, which could prove fatal if eaten by dogs exercising in Beacon Park.” He also noted that the new solar-powered dispenser aligns with the council’s commitment to safeguarding the district’s natural beauty for future generations. Bob Harrison of Lichfield Litter Legends expressed his belief that it was an excellent initiative. He remarked, “The feed is high quality and dispensed right into the hand so there is no need for plastic bags or cups which could have been a source of litter.”