Wildlife Feeding: Cambridge vs Somerville
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Somerville, MA?
Somerville has fewer restrictions than Cambridge.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, turkeys, waterfowl, and raccoons; rodent-friendly bird feeding may also trigger violations.
View full Cambridge rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville prohibits feeding of wildlife that creates nuisance or public health risks, and MassWildlife restricts feeding of deer, bears, and turkeys statewide.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Intentional Feeding | Prohibited | - |
| Bird Feeders | Allowed if clean | - |
| Rodent Ordinance Fine | Up to 300 dollars | - |
| Fresh Pond | Active enforcement zone | - |
| TNR Cats | Registered colonies only | - |
| Nuisance authority | - | Board of Health |
| State rules | - | 321 CMR 2.02 (deer/bears) |
| Bird feeders | - | Allowed if no rodent issue |
| Pigeon feeding | - | Prohibited when a nuisance |
| Base fine | - | 100 dollars plus abatement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Can I feed ducks at Fresh Pond or the Charles River in Cambridge?
No. Waterfowl feeding is prohibited, especially at Fresh Pond which is the municipal drinking water supply.
Are bird feeders allowed in Cambridge?
Yes, but they must be maintained to prevent seed spillage; feeders that attract rats can trigger rodent ordinance fines.
Somerville FAQ
Can I keep bird feeders?
Yes, but if they attract rats or cause property damage, the Board of Health can order removal under Somerville's rodent control rules.
Are coyotes a concern?
Coyotes are present in greater Boston; MassWildlife advises against any intentional feeding to keep them wary of humans.
Compare other topics
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