Algonquin College has a large sprawling campus south of Baseline near Fisher in Ottawa.  For that last few years, Mallard ducks have been nesting in a courtyard – a situation that is not uncommon in urban areas across much of Canada.   The College released this memo to encourage students and staff to modify their behaviour, including where they put their cigarette butts, to protect ducks.  It is worthwhile sharing this example of good stewardship, and hoping that more people and groups will catch on.   The vulnerable period for the ducks lasts about a month.

Mallard female with chicks

MEMO

Subject: Duck Nest in C Building Courtyard

Once again this year, a female mallard duck has been found nesting in the C building courtyard. Therefore, a portion of the courtyard will be temporarily fenced off until the beginning of August to provide her with a safe environment to hatch her ducklings. This will require the temporary closure of the  southwest exit door; however, all other doors will remain open.

The Canadian Wildlife Service has advised that developing foraging skills is critical to duckling survival in the wild and that the ducks must not be fed while in the courtyard.

The College community is asked to respect the boundaries of the fence and to please resist the temptation to feed the duck and her ducklings. Smokers are asked to use the cigarette containers in the courtyard and not to discard cigarette butts on the ground, as they present a deadly hazard to the ducklings.

The family will be encouraged to leave the courtyard when the ducklings are large enough to survive in the outside world.

If you have any concerns or questions about this notice please contact the Physical Resources Service desk at extension 7710 or via email at  7710@algonquincollege.com.

Or

Beverley Haslegrave
Horticulturalist
W: 613-727-4723 ext. 6197