Feeding water fowl prohibited in Idaho Falls

People love to feed the ducks and geese at the Idaho Falls greenbelt; but Thursday night, the City Council passed an ordinance prohibiting it.

City leaders say it’s a pastime loved by many, but it’s harmful to the waterfowl.

Idaho Falls Police will be issuing warnings to anyone caught feeding the birds on city owned property, while more people become aware of the ordinance.

But after that, you could be fined up to $100.

Animal experts say when you feed the birds, it makes them want to stick around the area and not move south.

That creates an unnatural environment for them that has some serious consequences.

“They may survive on the food you’re giving them, but you’re throwing them off their schedule, so to speak,” said Gregg Losinski, with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. “They’re staying somewhere longer than they meant to and so then you pretty much commit them to being here year round.”

The city will also be posting signs informing park goers why it’s not ok to feed the birds.