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Mute Swan expansion on Grand Strand




Hi Carolinabirders,
	It became clear to me yesterday, that there is an expansion of Mute Swan
numbers in the area of  the Grand Strand, but largely confined to the area
from Surfside to Murrell's Inlet, where I estimate the population at
probably close to 100 birds. Gary thinks somewhat less.  Yesterday, there
were two Mute Swans in the marsh at HBSP and at least one has been regular
there since last Fall.  However it blew my mind when I saw about 20 in the
pond near highway 17 at its intersection with route 544.  I inquired of the
management at the nearby Walmart if they had put the Mute Swans there, but
they did not do so.  
	Since the early 90's there were small numbers of Mute Swans in this area.
Indeed I know, because he told me so, that one developer brought Mute Swan
young from Chaeasepeake Bay to the ponds in his development.  At Lex
Glover's urging I asked that he pinnion the birds and addle the eggs or
destroy the nests. He confessed that the birds leave off and on during the
day but return at night but did not confirm that he would follow the
recommendations.  Gary in his work last year found birds at several other
locations near this development.  My questions are:

1. How serious and what is the nature of the threat to native waterfowl
posed by Mute Swans.
2. What legal obligations under federal law do owners of non-native
waterfowl have to control their flocks so that they don't become a
nuisance? I spoke to Lex Glover who informed me that there is no
legislation in SC that gives SCDNR authority to act, though he clearly saw
the need for such legislation. I am awaiting a call from authorities at US
Fish and Wildlife.

	I have informed a few folks in the waterfowl hunting community about what
is happening and they are looking into it also.

I solicit your informed input.

Jack

P.S. I contacted the person who reported a Tundra Swan at HBSP over the
weekend and you guessed it. It was in fact a MUTE!



 

 
Jack Peachey
Conway, SC