Installed in the Burrs Country Park, a special vending machine is dispensing healthy, duck-safe food in biodegradable paper bags for £1 per bag.
90% of the profit will be going towards the initiative’s running costs and the remainder going to the Friends of Burrs Country Park group to help fund events and park maintenance.
The initiative was introduced to discourage visitors from feeding ducks bread, which is harmful to their health and pollutes the waterway.
Bury councillor Alan Quinn said the council was “delighted” to support the scheme, adding: “Don’t let it be said that we duck the big decisions.”
“Everyone likes to feed the ducks and this initiative will help ensure that the birds are getting a healthy diet,” he said.
A sign on the machine states: “Bread makes ducks ill and does not contain the right nutrition or calories that they need to grow or keep warm. Rotting bread pollutes the water and cause nasty surface algae, which kills wildlife and gives ducks diseases.”
Why It Matters:
- Bread is bad for ducks: It lacks nutrition, can cause deformities (like “angel wing”), and contributes to algal blooms when it rots in water.
- Eco-friendly alternative: The machine offers a mix of wild bird seed, oats, and peas—ingredients that are safe and nutritious for waterfowl.
- Educational impact: Signage around the machine explains why bread should be avoided and promotes responsible wildlife interaction, especially for families and children.
A Growing Trend
Burrs Country Park’s duck food vending machine is part of a wider movement across the UK. Similar machines can be found in places like Maidstone (Kent), Harrow (London), and Bristol, often supported by local councils, wildlife trusts, or campaigns like “Ban Bread” by the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT).
Visit Info:
- Location: Burrs Country Park, Bury, Greater Manchester (near the outdoor activity centre and riverside walk).
- Park features: Historic mill ruins, walking trails, picnic areas, and a popular spot for birdwatching.
- Duck species: Mallards, moorhens, coots, and occasionally herons can be seen along the Irwell.
This simple but clever vending machine reflects a growing awareness of urban ecology—and proves that even small innovations can make a big difference for wildlife and the environment. 🌱🦆
So next time you’re at Burrs Country Park, skip the sandwich crusts—and grab some proper duck snacks from the machine!