Do Muscovy ducks carry disease?
There is no evidence that Muscovy ducks transmit disease to humans, or otherwise pose a public-health threat. What about trapping? Trapping and relocation may sound like a good option, especially when disreputable trappers give only vague information about the ultimate destination of the animals. State law does not allow Muscovy ducks to be relocated to public lands (Captive Wildlife Regulation 372.265). The truth is that when ducks are removed by trappers, they will most likely be killed. Ducks who are not killed right away may be transported long distances in cramped cages to farms that will kill them for meat or exploit them for their eggs. The practice of trapping and removal can also injure animals. ARFF has received complaints about cruel trappers who only remove adult ducks, separating mothers from their offspring, leaving orphaned ducklings behind. In addition, trapping is expensive and ineffective as a long-term solution.
