DNR, activists spar on method of swan-killing

Group plans to sue if 'cervical dislocation' isn't stopped

By PAMELA WOOD, Staff Writer

Published 07/14/09

Animal rights activists are laying the groundwork to sue the state over the manner in which it kills adult mute swans, using a bolt-cutter-like device to snap the birds' necks.

G. Nick Lundskow — The Capital / File A mute swan swims in a pond near Kent Narrows. The state continues to kill the nonnative swans, but animal rights activists are threatening to sue, saying the technique used violates animal cruelty laws.

The Humane Society of the United States, a nonprofit group, sent a warning letter to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources last week. And if the DNR doesn't put down the bolt cutters, the group plans to sue, saying the practice violates state animal cruelty laws.

"We've maintained all along that this procedure is just horrifically brutal and cruel. … If it was done in downtown Annapolis, it wouldn't last 10...

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Support for DNR - 2009-07-15 09:29:51

I agree that using bolt cutters sounds cruel and am all for animal rights. But I believe DNR has weighted their options and as they stated they seeked information from a variety of veterinarians, and if the vets say is an appropriate method we should trust them and leave it at that. No matter what method DNR decides to use, not everyone is going to agree with it. But bottom line is the swans are being destructive. Comparing this to the Holocaust is a little extreme.

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J Green - annapolis, MD - Karma: Neutral

If at first you lose... - 2009-07-14 21:58:34

try a different tactic. I'm all for treating animals humanely but these swans need to go and this side issue is only going to delay implementation. As long as this is dragged out DNR is either just going to have to shoot them all or, by the time it's all settled, there will be hundreds more to kill.

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Nils P. - Arnold, MD - Karma: Excellent