Ever walked along Marsa’s picturesque waterfront, the Mediterranean’s gentle breeze carrying the quacks of ducks floating on the Grand Harbour? Lately, those quacks have been a tad quieter. The Marsa Local Council has issued an unusual plea: they need to rehome some of these feathered friends. Why? Let’s dive into the story.

Marsa’s duck population has been declining. The council, in a recent meeting, revealed that several ducks have died, leaving the remaining ones vulnerable. The once bustling waterfront fowl community is now a shadow of its former self. But why the sudden drop?

Councilor Joseph Borg, a long-time Marsa resident, attributes the decline to a lack of food and increased human activity. “The ducks used to feed on bread thrown by tourists and locals. But with the pandemic and fewer visitors, food has been scarce. Plus, the increased activity around the waterfront, especially during the recent construction works, has stressed them out,” he explains.

The council’s solution? Rehome the remaining ducks to a more peaceful, food-abundant environment. They’ve reached out to local animal welfare organizations and nature reserves, like the Verdala Bird Sanctuary in Buskett, for help. But it’s not just about finding a new home; it’s about ensuring the ducks’ well-being.

“We want to ensure the ducks are placed in a safe, nurturing environment where they can thrive,” says Councilor Borg. “We’re looking for places with plenty of water, food, and minimal human disturbance. Somewhere they can live out their days in peace.”

If you know of a suitable location or an organization willing to take in the ducks, the Marsa Local Council wants to hear from you. They’re also appealing to the public to stop feeding the remaining ducks, as it might encourage them to stay in an environment that’s no longer suitable for them.

“We understand the joy these ducks bring to our community,” says Councilor Borg. “But we must prioritize their well-being. Let’s help them find a new home where they can live happily and healthily.”

So, Marsa’s quacky dilemma needs your help. Let’s ensure these ducks find their happily ever after. After all, every duck deserves a pond of its own.