Every morning at 4 a.m., I am woken up by an unwelcome choir of birds, thanks to a neighbour who insists on feeding them processed bread. The ibis, magpies, rainbow lorikeets, and cockatoos flock in large numbers, creating a nuisance in our peaceful neighbourhood of Randwick, NSW. This routine not only disturbs the peace but also results in unsightly droppings all over our roads, backyards, and driveways. The birds should be sustaining themselves naturally, eating worms and seeds as they would in the wild, and leaving waste on grass in parks, rather than urban environments.

This practice of feeding wild and native birds is not just an inconvenience; it disrupts natural feeding habits, which can lead to health issues for the birds, such as malnutrition and disease due to improper diets. According to BirdLife Australia, providing birds with processed foods can negatively impact their ability to forage naturally and survive in their natural habitats. Moreover, it leads to overpopulation in urban areas, resulting in increased conflicts within bird populations and with humans.

Our local magpies have even begun to pick at clothing on clotheslines, further showcasing how human interference is altering their behaviour. The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment has warned that feeding wild animals fosters dependency, resulting in the loss of their instinctive hunting and foraging skills, essential for their survival in the wild.

We need local authorities to enact legislation making the feeding of wild birds illegal in Australia . By implementing this law, we can protect our local ecosystems and ensure that these beautiful creatures can thrive as intended without human interference. Making this change will restore peace in our neighbourhood, prevent further behavioural disruptions among the bird population, and ensure that birds remain healthy and independent.

Please sign this petition to urge Randwick City Council to take action and protect our community and local wildlife. Together, we can foster a healthier coexistence between humans and our feathery friends.