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Increased Hybridization' At many feeding sites, domestic geese have interbred with Canada geese, further compromising the wild population. Locally at the Leeper Park Duck Pond, it is evident that residents have abandoned domestic ducks at the site. This furthers the hybridization issue and creates an unnatural scenario where the animals are no longer able to able to survive in natural environments. Delayed Migration 2 Feeding alters normal migration patterns of waterfowl by shortening or even eliminating them. Ducks, reluctant to leave in the winter, may not survive sudden cold. If the artificial feeding is stopped in time, ducks and geese can quickly adapt to finding natural foods and will follow their companions north. In West Haven Connecticut, 30 swans died from starvation at an artificial feeding site during the harsh winter of 93-94. Meanwhile, over 800 swans survived nearby on natural food. companions north. Overcrowding in Unnatural Sites' Feeding attracts birds in unnatural numbers, beyond natural food and water supplies, and frequently in numbers beyond what people will tolerate. Over -grazed and badly -eroded lawns and parks. Grassy areas such as ball fields and golf courses can become unsanitary and unusable. Maintenance costs for cleaning and keeping these popular gathering areas aesthetically pleasing become high. Artificial feeding often attracts birds to human habitats near roads and public areas where they are more subject to accidental death or disfigurement. Natural cover, which can provide protection from bad weather and predators is often lacking at these feeding sites. Costly Management Efforts' Many damage -avoidance techniques such as chemical repellents, fencing, or noise makers are costly and may even be useless once animals lose their fear of humans. At times, it is necessary to destroy nuisance waterfowl because of the damage they cause. Devaluation' From treasure to nuisance... wildlife managers recognize that the public's perception of the value of wildlife is Artificial feeding often attracts birds to human habitats near roads and public areas where they are more subject to accidental death or disfigurement. often reduced when numbers swell. When any wildlife population exceeds the number that can be naturally supported by available habitat, this can polarize the public and exaggerate conflicts between landowners who suffer damage and those who visit the site to feed the geese and ducks. The existence of duck ponds can no longer be considered a best practice for the environment or wildlife. • •