From late February and into August, Irvine Animal Services receives many phone calls from residents who are concerned about the well-being of ducks who have selected, what appear to be, strange locations to nest and raise their young.
Many calls are received regarding a mother duck and ducklings crossing the road, or ducks nesting around a backyard swimming pool.Some calls are from residents who feel the presence of ducks at a private residence is a nuisance and should be removed.
Federal law strictly prohibits interfering with nesting ducks. Irvine Animal Services will not ignore federal law concerning migratory waterfowl.Heavy fines are levied against anyone who violates the Federal Migratory Waterfowl Act.
Steps to prevent ducks from nesting in undesirable areas should be taken prior to the arrival of duck mating season.The following is a list of steps which may be taken to discourage ducks from making a backyard area a nesting site:
Cover swimming pools during the nesting season. Allow beach or pool balls to float on the surface of pools, ponds or fountains.
Clear away foliage from around water sources to eliminate a protected nesting area.
Enclose above ground decks with skirting to eliminate a nesting site.
In any instance of an injured duck, it is appropriate for Animal Services to be called. An officer will respond and appropriate actions will be taken. Be aware, however, that many times the appropriate response will be to remove only the injured duck and leave the rest alone. Should a mother duck and ducklings be crossing a busy street, Animal Services should be contacted so both human life and the ducks can be protected.
For more information, contact an Irvine Animal Services Officer at 949-724-7092.
City of Irvine 1 Civic Center Plaza Irvine, CA 92606-5207 Phone: 949-724-6000 Hours of Operation:
Mon.- Thur. 7:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m.
Friday 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.
