COMMITTEE members of the urban farm in Whitby Park have responded angrily to allegations that ducks have been mistreated.
The claims came from a Whitby resident who, in a letter to the Pioneer, said: 'The number of mallard ducks has continued to dwindle and there is now only one female left and she spends her time hiding in the reed beds.
'In her recent presentation to the council the urban farm chairperson, Lizzie Wiffen, apparently admitted that the wings on some of the ducks had been clipped to prevent them from flying away which explains the suffering that these birds have endured.
'Hopefully, the remaining duck will soon be able to leave the pond and find a more peaceful environment.'
But urban farm co-ordinator Carol Finn hit back: 'Last summer the urban farm put 12 mallards on the pond. This was done in discussion with the council's park officers. One duck was an adult female, the others were mature adolescent ducks, ready to fly.
'The mother had the tips of one set of flight feathers clipped, so that she could only fly in circles for a couple of weeks, while they all got used to the pond. The supplier of the ducks did this as he thought it in their best interest. The other ducks were fully able to fly.
'Mallards were chosen because they like to live in public places and are wild, so fend for themselves.'
Ms Finn added: 'We are pleased that many people have enjoyed feeding the ducks and shown an interest in their welfare. This is close to our hearts too.
'But it would appear there are some people who have nothing to do but try and throw dirt at others. It is a pity they are not using all that energy to try to provide more new attractions in Whitby Park, as we are.
'At the council meeting, one or two of the audience wanted to misinterpret Lizzie Wiffen. Perhaps now they would stop their nitpicking and find something more useful to do.'
