Tara Murray
New signs warning against feeding birds will be installed in Cairnlea following concerns from residents.
Residents have contacted Brimbank council in regards to the feeding of the birds, with the council now finalising the design of pictorial informative signs to be installed in the coming weeks at Cairnlea Lakes.
The council is also in contact with Melbourne Water about installing the new signs at the Melbourne Water-owned Jones Creek wetlands in Cairnlea.
Brimbank city development director Kelvin Walsh said the new signage stems from the well-intentioned feeding of birds and the impacts on water quality and animal welfare issues.
The council first installed signs on the council owned wetlands in 2019 telling people to not feed the birds.
“Occasionally, council receives customer calls raising concerns about wildlife and bird rescues in the Cairnlea area,” he said.
“It is important that we protect the diverse variety of bird life in Brimbank.
“We stress that feeding the birds is not recommended and will cause harm to the wildlife.
“Unfortunately what is seen as a joyful and well-meaning experience for visitors, can have consequences for the health of birds and waterways.”
A resident told Star Weekly that two-minute noodles, doughnuts and bread are among the items being regularly fed to the birds.
She said she had been concerned about the safety of some of the birds in the area, including a =well-known duck.
“Anyone with concerns about wildlife should contact Wildlife Victoria to rescue injured, sick, and orphaned wildlife. Whenever possible, they return healthy animals to the wild,” Mr Walsh said,
“Melbourne Water owns and manages the Jones Creek wetlands in Cairnlea, and any issues at the site should also be reported to Melbourne Water customer service team.”
