Non-resident Trespassing To Feed Invasive Ducks – What Can I Do?
For nearly a year, a non-resident has been repeatedly trespassing onto our privately owned townhome/condo property to feed Muscovy ducks (an invasive species), despite me asking her to stop. She wrongly believes the property is city owned because the building/land is an old historic building, but it is privately owned by us. Every single day, I have to clean up dirty water bowls and food containers she leaves behind, along with the mess from the ducks she is attracting.
This has made our shared space nearly unusable: This is an area where residents walk their dogs, sit and relax, do yoga, lay out and tan, read books, and even bring their laptops to work. However, because of the smell, mess, and aggressive ducks, people can no longer enjoy it like they used to.
Other serious issues this is causing: * Health risks: The ducks are defecating all over our sidewalks, and pets (including my dog) step in it, which can make them sick. * Public nuisance: The food and water she leaves out attract vermin, and the growing duck population is damaging property. * Predators: The steady food source is attracting coyotes, putting both the ducks and residents at risk. * Invasive species issue: Muscovy ducks are not native and can be aggressive, disrupt ecosystems, and spread disease.
I have tried talking to her, but she refuses to listen, screams over me, and acts completely unhinged. At this point, I’m at my wits’ end. What legal steps can I take?
- Can I report her for trespassing, and will law enforcement actually do anything?
- Can my HOA/property management take legal action against her?
- Since Muscovy ducks are an invasive species, would wildlife officials or another agency be able to intervene?
- Are there any legal notices I can post or actions I can take to prevent her from entering our property?
This has been going on for almost a year, and I’m exhausted from dealing with the daily mess and stress. Any legal advice on how to stop this would be greatly appreciated!
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