[Skipper]

Duck itch is awful.

"Don't Feed the Ducks"

How do we get the word out to the public? I have seen signs at some beach fronts but few read or heed them. There may even be a law against it.

The droppings from ducks, geese, sea gulls and other fowl are more than a nuisance on the ground or on the beach or in the water. They can be a health hazard causing more than the duck itch. You want to walk, play or swim in the stuff? Sure stuff happens, but feeding the ducks is like making a "stuff magnet" in that area.

How do we politely let duck feeders know that they are in the wrong? I have tried and been ignored and even yelled at. How dare I tell some parent that their kids should not feed the ducks. It often seems to create ill will resulting in aggravation. At sandbars I watch kids flip potato chips and leftovers to the hungry ducks. Other kids see this and they want to feed the duckies too. The ducks are sooo cute. The ducks swarm to those boats and then look to other boats for more free food. Leaving their excrement all around the crowded sandbar. Not too stupid these ducks also learn quickly not to fear man and boats so they come around us even more. A vicious circle leading to more duck itch.

What do we do to help educate everyone about this problem? Don't feed the ducks. Chase them away (don't hurt them).