68 Wild Ducks Dumped: Broken Wings and Shot Wounds in Belgium

In a disturbing case of wildlife abuse, 68 dead wild ducks were found illegally dumped in the Belgian province of Antwerp, many with broken wings and gunshot wounds. The discovery, first reported on 6 October 2026, initially led authorities to suspect disease. But a necropsy by the Vogelopvangcentrum Brasschaat/Kapellen (VOC) has now confirmed deliberate mistreatment, including shotgun pellets lodged in the birds' bodies. The rescue centre delayed publicising the news until 2 November to avoid hindering the investigation.

What Happened to the 68 Wild Ducks in Belgium?

On 6 October 2026, walkers discovered dozens of dead wild ducks in a natural area near Brasschaat and Kapellen, just north of Antwerp. Police and firefighters removed the carcasses, while VOC took three birds for further examination. At first, the centre considered avian disease a likely cause of mass mortality. wild bird mortality events are not uncommon in the region, but the first external inspection quickly raised red flags.

Investigation Findings: Gunshot Wounds and Broken Wings

Veterinarians at the rescue centre documented three broken wings and one broken neck among the three examined ducks. They also noticed entry wounds consistent with gunshot injuries. X-rays confirmed the worst fears: all three birds contained multiple shotgun pellets, and the fractures were also visible on the images.

"During the first external examination, we quickly noticed things that did not fit the picture of natural death or disease," the centre said in a Facebook statement. "Unfortunately, the X-rays confirmed what we already feared: all three ducks had multiple pellets in their bodies. The established fractures were also confirmed on the images."

Are Wild Ducks Protected in Belgium?

Wild ducks (Anas platyrhynchos, the mallard) are protected native species in Belgium, just as in the Netherlands. Hunting is permitted only under strict conditions, and abusing the animals or dumping carcasses is illegal. Under Flemish animal welfare law, intentionally injuring a protected bird can lead to fines and imprisonment. The case echoes broader concerns about illegal wildlife poaching in the Benelux region.

Impact and Reaction

The VOC said it was "disappointed and shocked" by the find, adding: "This is not a situation we can simply put aside." It remains unknown who dumped the 68 ducks. Authorities are still investigating the cause of death and are urging anyone with information to come forward. The incident has renewed debate about enforcement of hunting rules and animal cruelty penalties in Flanders.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many wild ducks were dumped in Belgium?

A total of 68 dead wild ducks were found dumped in the Belgian province of Antwerp on 6 October 2026.

What injuries did the ducks have?

Three examined ducks showed three broken wings, one broken neck, and multiple shotgun pellets in their bodies, confirmed by X-rays.

Where were the ducks found?

The birds were discovered in a natural area near Brasschaat and Kapellen, north of Antwerp, Belgium.

Is hunting wild ducks legal in Belgium?

Yes, but only under strict conditions. Wild ducks are a protected native species, and abusing or dumping them is illegal.

Who is investigating the duck dumping case?

Belgian authorities are investigating, but the identity of those responsible remains unknown.