Feeding birds french fries and other fried foods (1 Viewer)

[Stickman10]

Hello, I have a quick concern I'd like to get some expert opinions on.

I work at a local restaurant, which resides on a marina overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Each morning, the millionaire owner of this restaurant has instructed the kitchen help to discard all leftover french fries and hushpuppies (fried cornmeal) from the night before to the back of the restaurant, below our birdfeeders, which sit right next to the docks. The birds, as you might imagine, gobble them right up.

Surely this can't be good for the animals, nor the people who come and eat at our outside cafe about 50 yards away from the birds' "fast food fly through."

If this practice is as bad as I think it is, what course of action can I take as far as maybe contacting a possible local organization of some sort? Going directly to the owner is not an option, as he is very fond of firing people for the slightest infractions (we make very good money here and he views his people as highly expendable).

Thanks everybody.

 

[Katy Penland]

Hi, stickman! I see this is your first post, so a warm welcome to you from all of us on staff here at BirdForum! :t:

I agree with you and your concerns for the public. Who wants to eat with bird poo everywhere? And, believe me, it will be everywhere if gulls, pigeons and other large flocking birds are encouraged. I'd say this was a matter for your local/county health department. In fact, most restaurants actively discourage the feeding of any wildlife, but especially of birds, due to the nuisance/health problems they create. Keep us posted on what you decide to do, will you?

 

[Mabel]

Lo stickman!

 

[matt green]

You must have something similar our health and safety inspecters?

These are very strict in the uk and any potential risk to public health the
offending persons can often be heavily fined,or even have their premises closed down until the conditions improve.

You're right about not approaching your boss in person,don't risk your job!

Matt