GUSTINE — In a move to promote public health and environmental stewardship, the Gustine City Council has officially adopted an ordinance prohibiting the feeding of wildlife within city limits.
The ordinance, passed on July 15, adds Section 7-3-13 to the Gustine Municipal Code and is set to take effect 30 days after adoption.
The new law makes it illegal to intentionally feed non-domesticated animals, with limited exceptions for permitted wildlife care or temporary feeding while awaiting pickup by animal control or humane agencies. Backyard bird feeders remain allowed under the ordinance. Violations will be enforced through the city’s administrative code process and carry fines consistent with municipal infractions.
City officials cited concerns over public safety, environmental degradation, and the health of local wildlife as driving factors behind the ordinance. A flyer posted at Harry Schmidt Park titled “The Problem with Feeding Ducks” outlines many of these issues, including the nutritional harm caused by feeding bread and chips to ducks and geese, the spread of disease, and increased aggression among birds competing for human-provided food. The flyer also references legal protections under §251.1, which defines feeding as a form of harassment when it disrupts normal animal behavior.
Bread and chips may seem harmless, but they’re essentially junk food for birds—offering little to no nutritional value. When birds rely on human handouts instead of foraging, they miss out on the diverse nutrients found in their natural diet, which can lead to health problems and shorter lifespans. Over time, regular feeding can cause birds to lose their natural instincts for survival, making them dependent and more vulnerable. It can also attract an excessive number of birds to one area, overwhelming the local ecosystem and creating sanitation and safety concerns for both wildlife and park visitors.
The ordinance complements the city’s broader environmental efforts and reflects a growing commitment to preserving the integrity of public spaces and natural ecosystems. Residents are encouraged to help by allowing wildlife to forage naturally, cleaning up litter, and learning more about the animals that share Gustine’s parks and waterways.
For more information or to view the ordinance, residents can contact the City Clerk’s office or visit the city’s website.
