Stratford Residents Urged to Keep Watch as City’s Iconic Swans Go Missing
Residents in Stratford, Ontario, are being urged to be vigilant as five of the city’s beloved swans have gone missing, leaving their usual spots around Lake Victoria empty. What initially appeared to be a routine day for Quin Malott, the city’s parks and forestry manager, quickly transformed into a thrilling swan chase.
Malott, who regularly feeds the swans near the lake, noticed the absence of three out of the usual six majestic birds. Initially assuming they might have wandered off, he was surprised to find all six missing upon his return the next day, without a single feather in sight.
Despite extensive search efforts along the riverbanks and stormwater retention ponds, the missing swans have not been located, stirring concern among locals.
“These swans are a treasured part of Stratford’s charm, closely tied to our park system and the renowned theatre festival,” Malott expressed, emphasizing the birds’ significance in the community. With 18 swans in total, the absence of these iconic creatures has left a void in the city.
While the possibility of the swans being taken cannot be ruled out, Malott highlighted their dependence on human feeding habits, making them susceptible to being lured away. The birds may still be out there, concealed in areas with limited visibility, or they could have flown away if their wings were not properly restricted.
Reports from vigilant residents indicated a sighting of one of the missing swans in a stormwater retention pond, prompting plans for its retrieval on Thursday. Malott shared his strategy to gradually approach and capture the timid bird by providing ample food to gain its trust.
As efforts continue to locate the remaining missing swans, the public’s assistance is crucial in reuniting them with their home in Stratford, given the absence of tracking devices on the birds. The quest to bring back the city’s cherished swans remains a top priority for both residents and officials.