>From time to time I have observed people with binoculars, scopes or cameras
being less than careful or thoughtful regarding the wildlife they are
observing or the private property the wildlife is on. I know that many of
you have encountered the same. As it is nesting season and spring migrants
have arrived, it may be tempting to move a bit closer for a "better view or
a really nice photo op".
This is a reminder to please not trespass on private property and be aware
that it is nesting season and that disturbance around these wildlife areas,
including ponds and wetlands, may adversely affect the wildlife that are
using it or breeding there.

The trespass issue has been brought to my attention the past two weeks
because of the Monroe Honor Farm pond (old prison area off Tualco/203rd).
The entire farm area is private property owned by Qualco. It is OK to park
along the road or just off it where available or even in the parking lot
near the buildings. It is not OK to get out and walk towards the pond or
wander around buildings. Nesting ducks are still in the marshy area along
shoreline in addition to Canada geese with broods along with a single
Trumpeter Swan. The lease holder, Eagle Perch Ranch (a hunting club), does
not want people going into this wildlife sensitive area without express
permission from them. They have leased the entire pond area from Qualco and
thus control access to it.
I along with a few others are monitoring the swan and it is feeding
and moving around well at this time. It has been on the pond for more than
8 weeks. If you do see something amiss with the swan please feel free to
contact me directly.

This is a great place to see a wide variety of waterfowl and other birds.
Please respect the private property boundaries and bird from near your car
or along the roadside. And please remember to respect other private
property areas you may visit.

Thanks for birding with respect for wildlife and property owners.

Martha Jordan
The Trumpeter Swan Society
Washington Swan Stewards-Chair
PMB 272
914 - 164th Street SE
Mill Creek, WA 98012
425-787-0258
Cell 206-713-3684