A NEW vending machine set up in Vines Park will allow visitors to feed wild birds healthily and sustainably.
The dispenser, supplied by the Feed the Ducks scheme, has been provided and fitted at no cost to the council and enables visitors to feed wild birds a varied diet essential for their health.
Powered by solar energy and made from 20,000 recycled plastic bottles, the new machine promotes sustainability and reduces its environmental footprint, ensuring consistent operation throughout the day.
The machine, already available to use at the park, means visitors can feed the local birds properly for £1. The food within the machine offers an alternative to bread which is often fed to ducks but lacks nutritional value.
Bread can fill a duck’s stomach, preventing it from foraging for its natural diet and potentially leading to malnutrition. Uneaten bread also attracts pests and can cause algae blooms and water pollution.
The vending machine gives a fun way for the community to engage with nature for a small fee – the machine dispenses a generous amount of food to feed the wild birds. No cash is needed – just a contactless payment method.
Councillor Beverley Hardman, executive board member for environment, Wychavon, said, “We are excited to work with Feed the Ducks on this project.
“It is a wonderful opportunity for our community to connect with the environment and help care for our local ducks and waterfowl.
“I can’t wait to see everyone enjoying this new addition to our parks.”
For every pound spent, 10 per cent will be given to Vale Wildlife Hospital and Rehabilitation Centre, a local charity helping injured birds and other animals.
Natalie Gould, from Vale Wildlife Hospital and Rehabilitation Centre, said, “We were thrilled to learn about the Feed the Ducks initiative.
“For many years, we’ve tried to educate against feeding bread to waterbirds, not only to help the birds but because of the impact feeding bread can have on the environment.
“We are so grateful we’ve been chosen to receive donations through the initiative, too. We hope all councils follow suit, and these wonderful feeders are available at all local parks that are home to waterbirds.”
