We need to talk about the quackers and honkers! NELC's waterfowl woes at Cleethorpes Boating Lake

                                                                

Barnacle geese resting up on a grassy bank of the boating lake 

THE spotlight has fallen on the ducks, geese and swans of Cleethorpes Boating Lake in a new report from North East Lincolnshire Council.

It states: "The lake has become home to numerous resident wildfowl. 

"While it is important to protect the birds of the Humber Estuary, the regular feeding of birds  by visitors has caused a population build-up - particularly of grey lag geese.

"This has created a management challenge in that it has caused damage to grassland and the large  fouling on pathways." 

"To manage these challenges, officers have undertaken daily cleaning of pathways while  a fountain and reed baskets have been installed to provide aeration and improve biodiversity."

Feeding ducks and geese is a popular pastime, and is often a first opportunity for toddlers to interact with birds.

There is no suggestion that there should be an outright ban on feeding - though it is already discouraged (especially with bread)  in some areas.

Nor does the report call for a cull which would undoubtedly cause squawks of outrage (from humans as well as from birds).

The report is due to be considered at a a council scrutiny panel meeting tomorrow, October 3. 

                                       

Although their numbers fluctuate, grey lag geese are usually the commonest bird species on and around the lake