Trumpeter Swan Shot Near Goose Lake

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By Daren Sukhram

Story Created: Nov 25, 2009 at 11:44 AM CST

Story Updated: Nov 25, 2009 at 11:44 AM CST

GOOSE LAKE - The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is asking the public for help to identify the person or persons responsible for shooting a trumpeter swan on or before Nov. 15, near the Goose Lake Wildlife Area, in Clinton County.

On Nov. 15, a trumpeter swan was found walking along Hwy. 136 west of the town of Goose Lake and near the Goose Lake Wildlife Area. Initially, the swan was believed to have hit a power line, but x-rays revealed pellets in the trumpeter's wing. The swan is in the process of getting to a wildlife rehabilitator but its long term prognosis is not clear.

"We've had swan shootings at Goose Lake in the past," said Luke Webinger, conservation officer for Clinton County. "At the very least, the swan will never fly again. This large female swan was hatched in 2000 here in Clinton County and was seen flying in and around the area over the last nine years. What we need is the public's help with any information on this shooting."

Anyone with information is encouraged to come forward either by calling Webinger at 563-357-1078 or by calling the Turn-in-Poachers hotline at 1-800-532-2020. Callers may remain anonymous. Callers may be eligible for a reward through the TIP program.

In addition to any citations and fines, shooting a trumpeter swan has the potential for $1,500 in liquidated damages.

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