Marsa’s Quacky Dilemma: Council Urges Rehoming as Duck Population Dwindles

If you’ve strolled along the bustling Marsaxlokk promenade recently, you might have noticed something amiss. The once-thriving population of ducks that called the Marsaxlokk and Marsaskala bays their home has dwindled, leaving behind an eerie silence where quacks once echoed. The Marsa Local Council has raised the alarm, appealing to the public to help rehome the remaining ducks to ensure their survival.

From Flock to Few: The Decline of Marsaxlokk’s Ducks

Marsaxlokk, a picturesque fishing village turned popular tourist spot, was once famous for its resident ducks. The birds were a common sight, waddling along the seafront, swimming in the bay, and providing a symphony of quacks that added to the village’s charm. However, the council has noticed a significant decline in their numbers over the past few years.

Council members suspect that the decrease is due to a combination of factors. The increased tourist activity, while boosting the local economy, has also led to more littering and pollution in the bays. The construction of the new marina in Marsaxlokk has also altered the birds’ habitat, making it less hospitable. the lack of a steady food source, as many locals and tourists have stopped feeding them, has further exacerbated the situation.

An Urgent Appeal: Rehoming Marsaxlokk’s Remaining Ducks

The Marsa Local Council has launched an urgent appeal to the public to help rehome the remaining ducks. They have reached out to local animal welfare organizations and bird sanctuaries, such as the Animal Welfare Department and BirdLife Malta, for assistance. The council is encouraging anyone with a suitable, safe, and spacious outdoor area to consider taking in some of the ducks.

“We understand that this is an unusual request,” says Councilor Joseph Borg, “but the situation is dire. We’re appealing to the kindness of our community to help save these birds. They’ve been a part of Marsaxlokk’s identity for generations, and we don’t want to see them disappear.”

Caring for Marsaxlokk’s Feathered Friends

If you’re considering rehoming some of Marsaxlokk’s ducks, there are a few things to keep in mind. Ducks need access to water, both for swimming and drinking. They also require a diet of pellets specifically designed for ducks, supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables. They’re social creatures, so it’s best to keep them in pairs or small groups.

Before you take them in, it’s crucial to ensure that your property is secure and safe for the ducks. They can fly, but they’re not particularly good at it, so high fences or netting might be necessary to prevent them from wandering off.

If you’re not in a position to rehome ducks yourself but would like to help, you can donate to local animal welfare organizations or report any injured or distressed ducks to the Animal Welfare Department. Every little bit helps in ensuring the survival of these iconic birds.

Marsaxlokk’s ducks have been a symbol of the village’s unique character for decades. Let’s not let them disappear on our watch. If you have the space and the heart, consider giving these feathered friends a new home. Together, we can ensure that the quacks of Marsaxlokk continue to echo for generations to come.