Waddling through the Metrocrest area

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Addison Animal Services has noticed an uptick in duck activity around Addison lately and appreciates everyone’s concern for their well-being. Many residents have reached out about the ducks, especially regarding requests to relocate or remove them. While it’s natural to want to help, it’s important to understand the rules and best practices for interacting with our feathered neighbors. At this time of year, most ducks are either nesting or have already hatched their eggs.

Understanding the Laws:

• In Texas, moving or relocating wild ducks is not permitted without special permits. Ducks, their nests, and eggs are protected under federal and state laws. Attempting to relocate them is not only illegal, but it can also harm the ducks, especially the ducklings, who may not survive if separated from their families.

Only professionals with permits from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or Texas Parks and Wildlife Department are allowed to move ducks and their nests.

• Relocating ducks often separates mothers from their ducklings, which can lead to abandonment and puts them in unfamiliar places where survival is unlikely.

How We Can Help:

Let Nature Take Its Course — nesting lasts only a few weeks. If ducks haven’t nested yet, you can gently discourage them from choosing your yard by keeping grass trimmed, removing food sources, or placing decoys. Once ducklings hatch, they usually stay in the nest until they’re ready to walk, and their mother leads them to water, often the next morning. Patience is key. Enjoy watching this natural process and know that the ducks will move on soon.

Feel free to contact Animal Services at animalservices@addisontx.gov with any questions or concerns.

_{Local News Matters.}