The battle to determine the fate of the wild mute swan populations in New York has progressed yet again in favor of the swans.
Earlier this year, the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) proposed a plan to reduce the populations of the wild mute swans in the state. The species, named for being less vocal compared to other swan species, is classified as an invasive species. The effect of the growing number of mute swans in the wild on the local flora and fauna has prompted the DEC to take action, one that involves killing the swans.
However, the proposal has received strong opposition from various groups and individuals, such as Senator Tony Avella from New York. Due to the backlash that resulted from the controversial proposal, the DEC has finally relented, stating that the department will consider using non-lethal methods in an effort to control the mute swan population in the wild. The department announced their intentions in a statement on Friday.
The wild mute swan was introduced to the country by wealthy individuals looking for a way to flaunt their wealth. The species, however, adapted to their new home quickly, resulting in a population boom. Today, these swans are a common sight in many U.S. states.
A study conducted by the DEC has identified the mute swan as the culprit for the destruction of the habitats of other indigenous water fowl in the New York region. Moreover, the DEC also iterated that wild swans can be very aggressive and may attack other birds and people. However, many are questioning the veracity of the study stating that the state authorities used methodologies that produced inconclusive data about the status of the mute swans.
Since the DEC announced their proposal last January, the department has received numerous requests and petitions in protest against the plan. To date, the DEC has received over 16,000 letters protesting the culling of the swans. Moreover, various protest petitions initiated by local and national groups have gathered over 30,000 signatures.
In their latest announcement, the DEC said that it will give the public an opportunity to voice out opinions regarding the matter this coming spring. The public commentary will begin after the DEC has completed revising its proposal for controlling the mute swan population.
"The draft plan for management for mute swans received significant public interest and DEC received many thoughtful and substantive comments," said DEC Commissioner Joe Martens. "DEC is listening to these comments and concerns and will revise the draft plan and provide an opportunity for the public to comment on the revised plan this spring."
