Question:

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-

Answer:

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!

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