Ducks

If ducks have wandered into your backyard, discourage them by taking away their sense of security.

Do not feed them and cover your pool etc.

They will normally move on when ready.

Do not try to trap them or separate the ducklings from the adult ducks as it is very stressful on the animals and detrimental to their health.

Remember: ducks are protected wildlife

There is no set way of dealing with ducks. If there is a family of ducks (ie ducklings and mother), it is best to get a licenced person/organisation to relocate them because there is a risk that the mother could abandon the ducklings if you try to relocate them in a manner which distresses the mother.

If the mother does abandon the ducklings, ring Wildlife Care Network on 0500 540 687. They are a volunteer group geared to take ducklings into their care. That is, they will rear them and introduce them to the environment once they are ready.

Bayside City Council does not rescue ducks

However, you may contact the following organisations:

• Help for Wildlife, Ph: 0417 380 687
• Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Ph: 136 186 (DNRE would prefer that you wait for a couple of days as the ducks are likely to leave of their own accord. They will send a Wildlife Duty Officer after this time has elapsed).