How important is sand or “grit” in ducks, geese and swans diets? It seems like certain shorelines that have sand along them are always popular with waterfowl in my area. -Jeff Rud
Jeff,
The consumption of grit is critical for digestion in ducks, geese and swans - especially when hard seeds are the primary food consumed. Small rocks and sand are consumed by waterfowl and contained in a centrally located muscle called a gizzard. The gizzard is common to all birds and actually acts a replacement for teeth. Since birds do not have teeth, food consumed by waterfowl enters the gizzard where it is then ground for easier digestion.
Great question!
Joel Brice