7/25/14 - Fenton Township officials are trying to figure out a solution for a problem involving mute swans on local lakes. Mute swans are an invasive species in Michigan, brought over from Europe about 150 years ago. They compete with native wildlife for food and resources, including the native and threatened trumpeter swan, and they have been known to attack humans and animals. The Department of Natural Resources has stated that it seeks to stop the growth of Michiganâs mute swan population as well as reduce it to a fraction of its current size using methods including euthanizing adults and destroying nests. Problems with aggressive swans have been reported on Ponemah, Squaw, and Tupper lakes in Fenton Township, according to the Tri County Times. Residents on the lakes visited the township board on Monday, but rather than their own safety, they were concerned about the mute swans that might be destroyed by the state. They were afraid the complaints about the swans would bring the DNR to the lake, and that they would destroy all of the local nests rather than just the ones causing trouble. They argued that the swans brought natural beauty to the area, even if they do chase people and boats. No action was taken by the board, but the issue will be discussed again in mid-August. (TD)
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