Protect Swan Nesting Areas

On April 20, 2016, the CT. Department of Energy and Environment Protection (DEEP) employees killed a male Mute Swan that was protecting its nest from two kayakers and two canoeists. Unable to catch the female, her eggs were addled. She continued to care for her eggs with no help or protection for nearly 2 months afterwards.
These swans had been living on the pond for over 20 years, enjoyed by many and apart from the nesting season, had become friendly to those living near the pond. There had been no other complaints during this time, only admiration of their beauty.
This outrageous act sparked a petition on April 28th, requesting the DEEP to release the employees involved in this horrible act, review necessity of euthanizing, reintroduce swans to Five Mile Pond and require posting where swans and other waterfowl nest, here in Killingly, Ct. and throughout the state.
With the help of CT State Representative Christine Randall, this petition was presented to the DEEP.
After much prodding by Rep. Randall, DEEP’s reply at the end of July was to educate the public via social media about nesting areas. DEEP would not elaborate on any other reforms or petitioned requests.
Although this is progress it is not enough. Not everyone has access to social media, particularly while kayaking or canoeing.
We continue our effort for protecting nesting areas of mute swans and other waterfowl not only here in Killingly, CT, but statewide. We ask that the DEEP develop a procedure for placement of signage.
We also request that DEEP rectify the horrible act of killing the Five Mile Pond swans that were enjoyed by so many by reintroducing them to this area.
I urge you to help us with this continued effort to protect swans and other waterfowl from humans. Wildlife cannot speak for themselves. It is up to us to help them.
I thank you in advance for your caring, signature and sharing.