Chewing gum’s potential effects on birds have long been a public discussion, often fueled by widely circulated stories. The concern centers on whether discarded gum significantly threatens avian populations. While some believe it is a widespread cause of bird mortality, experts generally consider the actual risk low.
Potential Harm Mechanisms
Birds could face harm from chewing gum through two mechanisms: ingestion and entanglement. Ingestion might occur if a bird mistakes discarded gum for food, possibly due to its color or smell. If a small bird consumes a large wad of gum, it could lead to choking. Gum is not digestible for birds; if swallowed, it could obstruct their digestive tract, leading to starvation or dehydration.
Entanglement also poses a risk to birds. Gum can adhere to a bird’s feathers, feet, or beak, especially when birds forage on the ground. If gum sticks to a bird’s beak, it can prevent the bird from eating or drinking, resulting in starvation. If feathers become matted with gum, a bird’s ability to fly can be impaired, making it vulnerable to predators or unable to find food. Gum stuck to a bird’s feet can also hinder its movement and ability to perch or forage effectively.
Assessing the Actual Risk and Prevention
Despite theoretical ways gum could harm birds, documented cases of severe injury or death are rare. Many bird species are discerning foragers; they typically peck at foreign objects like gum, quickly realizing it is not edible before consuming it. For instance, insectivorous birds such as barn swallows are unlikely to show interest in gum, as it does not resemble their natural diet. While harm is possible, it is not common.
Wildlife experts and ornithologists agree that gum’s threat to birds is minimal compared to other environmental hazards. Gum itself is not a fatal substance for birds. ZooAmerica Director Troy Stump noted that while a very small bird could conceivably choke on a large piece of gum, such instances are uncommon. Ern Tobias of Lake Tobias Wildlife Park similarly stated that birds are unlikely to try to eat gum and have never had a bird die from it at his park.
Regardless of the low direct risk, proper disposal of chewing gum remains important for environmental health. Most chewing gum contains synthetic polymers that do not biodegrade, making it persistent litter. Discarded gum contributes to pollution and can pose a minor, infrequent hazard to various wildlife. Wrapping used gum in paper and disposing of it in a trash bin helps keep public spaces clean and prevents rare harm to birds and other animals.