Musk ducks in the Saendelft district of Assendelft have reportedly divided residents for years. Some complain that the birds leave droppings, eat plants and create dangerous situations on cycle paths. One resident said children were afraid of the ducks, which had become bolder after being fed; another hoped the municipality would intervene. Other residents see the animals as an enrichment and say they also need space as construction expands. They nevertheless warned against feeding them, which can lead to larger numbers.

Zaanstad municipality said in June 2025 that the ducks would be moved to an animal shelter after several complaints, but the move was postponed because the shelter was full. A municipal spokesperson described the nuisance as a known and persistent problem. The Hofganzen Foundation is monitoring the number of ducks and removing eggs from nests in an effort to prevent the population from growing.