Don't Feed The Ducks

The Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 449 (HCMUD 449) Board of Directors would like to notify residents not to feed the Muscovy ducks in the district.

Muscovy ducks are an invasive species of duck causing damage to the District’s drainage facilities and retention ponds. This damage includes but is not limited to:

• Damage to the lake pumps due to waste
• Loss of local wildlife such as fish
• Damage to the lake shore and landscaping around the lakes, causing erosion issues
• Nesting in and around vegetation
• Spreading disease to native species
• Defecation on sidewalks, vehicles, lawns, and resident property
• Competing with native species for habitat and resources

Feeding the Muscovy ducks enables them to breed and flourish in the community, which causes more damage to the district and to the environment.

The District is currently working with an invasive species specialist to remove and relocate the Muscovy ducks, as well as remove their nests from the District to prevent further damage and breeding in the area. We ask that all residents abstain from feeding the ducks at this time to ensure that the Muscovy duck issue is taken care of swiftly and at minimal cost to the District and its residents.

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