Re-locating Muscovy ducks

[TerryGilbey]

I work for Mid Beds District Council and am currently dealing with a problem with approximately 15 wild Muscovy ducks which have decided to set up home on the grass verge outside 2 Readshill, Clophill, Bedfordshire, UK, which is a considerable distance away from the river. As a result they are fouling nearby properties and running out in front of cars (some accidents have occurred).

I would be grateful if anyone out there knew of an individual or organisation who would re-locate these birds far enough away that they dont just waddle back. I have contacted teh RSPB and RSPCA but neither seemed to want to help.

Your help would be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks
Terry

[Michael Frankis]

Hi Terry,

Welcome to BirdForum!

Muscovy Ducks are domesticated farm birds, that don't belong in the wild in Britain, and don't survive well either because they are not adapted to living in wild conditions (so they are easy prey for foxes, dogs, etc).

The best thing to do is to find a poultry farmer who would be prepared to take them, or else a 'Pet's Corner' type park zoo, if there is one in your area, where they can be properly looked after in a safe enclosure.

Michael

[Darren Oakley-Martin]

Hi Terry,

This will mean nothing to those who don't know the area, but at Willington, between Bedford and Sandy, there is a collector of wildfowl and rare-breed poultry. IThe collection is securely housed in grounds of around an acre and I wonder if they may be interested. The site is not too difficult to find.

The collection is situated by the entrance to the Danish Camp in Willington. Unfortunately, I have been unable to trace the owner, but will enquire of my acquaintances and try to provide you with a name and address as soon as possible.

Regards,