Ducks and geese are well suited to survive New England winters. We are taught from a young age not to feed wildlife for this reason, but we neglect to transpire this across to ducks. If you are in a park or zoo and want to feed the ducks, there are other options which will not harm their health. When birds fluff their feathers, they are merely increasing the air space and insulation. Waterfowl sitting with puffed feathers on a frozen pond are perfectly fine and do not need our help. So, I decided to do some research on what not to feed chickens. Feeding ducks, geese, and swans at local ponds and parks can be controversial, but it can also be an enchanting wildlife experience for all ages, and more than one birder has become interested in birds because of feeding ducks. As a kid, you probably tossed old bread into the water for the ducks. I no longer feed ducks a poultry grower ration containing 20% protein. Ensure any bread or bread products are only ever given as an occasional treat. I feed them peas, but I also used a supplement of niacin. Ensure any bread or bread products are only ever given as an occasional treat. So I know not to feed them bread or crackers but are there any other foods that they shouldn't eat? Whole grains like barley, oats, and wheat are great options too. So vegetables like cucumbers, peas, squash, zucchini, corn, kale, or broccoli your ducks will gladly take off of your hands. Do you know what to feed ducks to keep them healthy? What should I NOT feed them (aside from seeds and chocolate...already … The cause of "angel wing", a deformity found in waterfowl such as ducks, geese and swans has been uncovered. By knowing what to feed ducks as part of a nutritious and responsible diet, birders can enjoy this activity without inadvertently harming their favorite waterfowl. 3 reasons why you shouldn't feed bread to ducks Bread can have a foul effect on waterfowl, but other food in your pantry may fit the bill. It is recommended that you do not feed wild ducks for health purposes, but during the winter when it is hard for wild ducks to find food such as plants and weeds, you can help provide them with something to eat. What Not to Feed Ducks One of the most common myths regarding feeding ducks is that people often feed unhealthy or inhumane food to the ducks. What NOT to Feed Ducks. This supplement is a powder that can be easily mixed into their food. Please also note that feeding ducks is not the same as feeding chickens. We're on a mission to improve the health of our wild birds across the country. As I prepare my run and "duck hut" in preparation for Spring (and getting some Khaki's and/or Runners), I am trying to learn as much as possible about the care and feeding of ducks.