Hi,
As many of you are aware, there has been a significant die-off of
Trumpeter Swans in the Whatcom County area and Sumas Prairie, B.C. just over
the border. To date, about 850 swans have died in the past 4 winters.
This year there is a more concerted effort to study the situation and
pinpoint where the birds are getting the lead. Trapping is being conducted
with collars and radiio transmitters being placed on the swans.
Your assistance is needed. If you visit the Whatcom, Skagit or
Snohomish county areas and see a sick, injured or dead swan please report it
immediately to:
Sue Murphy, Pilchuck Wildlife at 360-387-8299. She is the official person
to deal with the situation.
If you see a swan down in the upper Snohomish River valley or the
Snoqualmie Valley area please call Martha Jordan at 425-787-0258.
There have already been birds picked up in Whatcom County and the upper
Sno. River area that have lead poisoning.
Data collection is extremely important to help end this situation.
Thanks.


Martha Jordan
www.swansociety.org