People food is junk food to animals

People food is junk food to animals

Let’s face it; most of us are guilty of offering a "treat" to a wild animal. We think it is harmless and that we are helping the animal. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) says feeding wildlife is not helping the animals and may actually be harming them. In addition, it is illegal in Florida to feed sandhill cranes, bears, raccoons, foxes, alligators and others.

Human food is not suitable for wild animals and can cause serious health problems.

"Food being fed to animals usually offers inadequate nutrition," said Anni Mitchell, FWC biologist in Lake City. "This ‘people’ food is ‘junk’ food for animals."

Food meant for humans can cause all kinds of problems for animals. Some people food contains many ingredients that are toxic to animals of the furry kind. Also, bones from chicken can splinter and get stuck in the throat or intestines, causing damage to organs or death. Other foods including nuts, potato peelings, some vegetables and even moldy, spoiled food can cause mild digestive illnesses or vomiting. While most cases are mild, some may be fatal.

"If you are a wildlife lover and get the urge to toss food to an animal you think is hungry, remember, your generous offer may actually cause more harm than good," Mitchell said.