This group of goslings, with some older geese, were under the Abingdon Map beside the River Thames this evening.
The goslings looked very young but were already able to walk, and swim, and eat grass.
They will be much better off if they are just allowed to eat grass – NOT given bread which is to them a junk food. We humans can get away with eating junk food now and again, but baby birds grow up much quicker and so for them a natural grass diet will make them strong and healthy. Bread won’t.
There are several false beliefs abou feeding animals. For instance milk and cream are not good for cats although not a lot of people know that. I am afraid that I was guilty of feeding duck etc with bread. I used to give bread to my children to throw at the ducks.
And please never put out bread and milk for hedgehogs. Cat food and water only .
However, giving beer to the Morris Dancers is entirely appropriate.
I am on a mission with the Friends of Abingdon and in memory of my late husband Alan Bryden to renovate the town maps. Many are in a bad condition and need replacing. If there is anyone who is willing to help by checking the present maps for accuracy please get in touch with me at pat@brydens.me.uk