A COUNCIL officer has confirmed that you could be fined for feeding birds in Evesham's parks. 

The officer from Wychavon District Council said that they would much rather work with the public, but could not rule out fines. 

This comes as a woman in Derby was fined for 'littering' after feeding birds. 

Jon Hulbert, senior parks and greenspace officer for Wychavon District Council, said: “We do ask people not to feed the birds in our parks bread as it has very little nutritional value for them, fills up their stomachs so they don’t eat the food they need and if it remains on the ground not only does it look unsightly but it can also attract rats.

"It is much better to feed them natural food such as seed, that can be obtained from many retailers.

“Throwing food on the ground for the birds to eat can be considered littering, which people can be fined for, but we would much rather work with people to help them understand the problem and that there are better ways to support our feathered friends."

Ducks and other aquatic birds are often fed bread which is actually not very natural or healthy for them.

Stuart Albutt, a resident of Evesham said: "I've got mixed feelings about the issue. 

"In the town centre there are big signs and you don't seem to see people feeding the birds. 

"But down by the river, you do see a few people doing it. 

"It's not against the law and it's not something you can police, there are signs asking you not to feed the ducks but ironically people still do. 

"People have the right to do what they want but it doesn't seem right, it encourages rats and there are a lot of pigeon droppings."

The council recommended using a bird feeder or bird seed instead.

Mr Hulbert continued: “Using a bird feeder or bird table at home filled with bird seed is a great way of providing food for our birds.

"If you don’t have space for a bird table or feeder then a simple bird feeding tray can help attract birds to a balcony or a windowsill, even in a block of flats.

"Anyone interested in supporting our local bird species to thrive can find more information at www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife."