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Reward Doubles for Information on Slain Trumpeter Swans

The lone surviving Trumpeter Swan at the corner of Scio Church and Parker Roads.

On August 16, the Huron Valley Humane Society (HSHV) increased the reward to $2,500 for information which would lead to arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for intentionally killing a family of trumpeter swans in Freedom Township. Donations from concerned citizens have more than doubled the reward money, which was originally set at $1,000.

Trumpeter swans are both federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and state protected as a threatened species in Michigan.

A joint effort by the Washtenaw County Sheriff Department, Michigan Department of Natural Resources and HSHV indicates that someone driving southbound on Parker Road from Scio Church road veered off the side of the road to run over an adult and four baby swans around 6:15 a.m.Wednesday, August 10. Tire track markings suggest that the vehicle may be a Jeep or pick-up truck which has been lifted with large, 18-20 inch all-terrain tires.

The necropsy of the adult swan revealed injuries consistent with being run over by a motor vehicle.

“We’ve received an unbelievable number of calls from people living nearby and commuters on that road offering support,” says HSHV Animal Cruelty Investigator Aaron Soyring.

“Not just bird lovers are concerned,” says Tanya Hilgendorf, President and CEO of HSHV. “Studies show a startling connection between violence against animals and violence toward humans. This is not just an illegal, cruel act, but also this is a public safety issue.”

HSHV asks that anyone with information please call the Washtenaw County Sheriff tip line at (734) 973-7711 or HSHV 24-hour animal cruelty hotline at (734) 661-3512.

by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.