Volunteers Trying To Save The Ducks At East Lake Park

  • Tuesday, April 16, 2019

Wildlife rescue and rehabilitation specialists along with other concerned citizens, including veterinarians, said they have reached out to the Mayor and to the Department of Public Works "with expressions of concern and offers of help for a humane relocation of the ducks at East Lake Park."  

Susan Perruso said, "In connection with the long-planned renovation of the park and pond, a high fence has been erected around the area, heavy equipment is on site, and the pond is in the process of being drained.  But the bewildered ducks are still there.  These are domestic ducks unable to fly high enough to clear the fence to find a new habitat.  And no fresh water is coming into the pond as of today. Unless the City allows qualified people to relocate the ducks to a safe place, their fate will be to die a slow death behind that fabric fence, out of the sight of the public.  The fish and turtles will die as well.

"These creatures have provided enjoyment for the public for generations.  In fact, the pond was originally created to be a habitat for waterfowl, with beautiful swans among the early inhabitants. These creatures should be treated humanely.   Their nests and eggs have already been removed.  All it would take for the ducks to be saved and relocated to a sanctuary is for the mayor and public works officials to accept the offers of help from those who are ready, willing, certified and able to do the task at zero cost to the city.     

"If the ducks are to survive, their removal must happen immediately.  Whatever state or federal wildlife agencies the city is collaborating with (according to the city’s own publication) are nowhere to be seen and would not necessarily have a solution to the “duck problem” that involves the ducks’ survival.  (Remember the debacle of the mass killing of geese that took up residence at Chattanooga State.)      

"Take us up on our offer, Mayor Berke.  Let us save the ducks so the city can proceed with construction with a clear conscience and a reputation for being good stewards of our wildlife."

 

 

 

Happenings
Volunteers Needed for American Battlefield Trust Park Day
  • 3/28/2024

Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park is seeking volunteers for American Battlefield Trust Park Day. Sign-up will begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 6 at the intersection of Woodland ... more

Nominations Open For United Way's Celebrate Awards
  • 3/28/2024

United Way of Greater Chattanooga announces the opening of nominations for the Celebrate Awards, an annual celebration that shines a spotlight on the efforts of local nonprofits and volunteers ... more

Chattanooga Beer Fest Returns May 25
  • 3/28/2024

Organizers of the Chattanooga Beer Fest have announced the 2024 date will be Saturday, May 25 at the First Horizon Pavilion from noon-3 p.m. The festival is a celebration of craft beer offering ... more