Woman: Bienville Square fountain deadly to squirrels

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Mobile's Bienville Square is a popular place to feed squirrels and watch them dash between the trees. They are mostly friendly, hungry and have become somewhat of an attraction to both locals and tourist.

But one woman said there is one problem and more needs to be done to protect them.

Toni Ann Barnard said the Bienville Square fountain can be a deadly trap for squirrels, trying to get some water. Although we have not seen proof of the problem, Barnard said it happens all too much.

"They go through the fence. They jump up on the side of the fountain. They climb down in there, and they get on the black bulb. Well when they bend down to drink water, they fall in,” said Barnard.

Barnard said there is an easy fix for the problem.

"Something to put up along the inside part of the fountain where once they go in they have a chance of getting out and not drowning,” said Barnard.

City officials said they have not received any reports in their 311 system about squirrels drowning in the park’s fountain.

Kevin Hill, an Alabama conservation officer, said if this is in fact a growing problem, action should be taken.

"If they see a pattern that is starting to take effect, and they see more and more squirrels that are falling into it and drowning; I would suggest that they address it,” said Hill.

If you see any wild life issues in Bienville Square, you can report it by dialing 311.