The City of Lethbridge is urging the public to not feed wild birds. (Photo: Artrodar | Dreamstime.com)

By David Opinko

Don’t feed wild birds, urges City of Lethbridge

Dec 16, 2025 | 1:28 PM

Officials with the City of Lethbridge say people are actually doing more harm than good by feeding wild birds.

Erin McIlwraith, Parks Operations Coordinator, says they have received several reports this year of dead birds at Henderson Lake.

“Upon investigation, our team found a large amount of bird seed on the ground in the park. We want to urge the public not to feed wildlife because it does a lot more harm than good,” says McIlwraith.

The City explains in a news release that birds never need supplemental food from humans.

Their natural habitat provides ample food sources that are appropriate for their species. Food left by humans often lacks nutritional value and increases their dependence on humans.

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“It isn’t our responsibility to feed wildlife,” says Coreen Putman, Manager, Helen Schuler Nature Centre. “Birds are developing important skills as they forage. Once they learn to expect food from a non-natural source, they are more likely to suffer malnutrition and delay migration.”

Dependance isn’t the only unintended consequence:

• Feeding decreases their natural defense instincts and puts them at greater risk of injury and predation
• Excess food, grain or seeds left behind can spoil and trigger illness when consumed by wildlife
• Feeding contributes to overcrowding, which increases disease transmission for salmonella and avian influenza

“Birds that become accustomed to handouts may lose their natural caution,” emphasizes Putman. “This leads to aggressive behaviour between birds, as well as towards children and pets.”

“We want to make sure humans and wildlife can enjoy our parks equally and live in harmony,” says McIlwraith. “Next time you’re eating lunch in a park, please keep your food to yourself.”

For tips on supporting wildlife without feeding them, visit the Helen Schuler Nature Centre’s website.