Swan attacks spur need for awareness event at Shaftesbury Lake

This follows a series of concerning incidents involving a pair of nesting swans that have been targeted by youths throwing objects at them. 

This led to a public appeal from Wiltshire Police, encouraging parents of children in the area to be more aware of what they are doing. 

More recently rat traps and poisonous bait blocks have been found near the swan's nest and around the lake, sparking further concern. It is believed they have been left by a well-meaning member of the public trying to protect the expectant parents from rats, unaware of the potential harm they could cause. 

These examples show why the upcoming Wildlife Discovery Day being held at the lake on Saturday May 28 between 10am and 2pm is needed. 

Both of the parish councils who oversee the management of the area, as well as community group Friends of Shaftesbury Lake, wildlife charity RSPCA Oak and Furrows and Swindon Police will be there to help teach the importance of local wildlife and what people can and should do to help. 

There will be various activities on offer, including pond dipping, activity stands, face painting and more. Police will also be attending to answer any questions and will have a police car on site to show to children and anyone interested. 

Local resident Kim McCue, who came up with the idea for the event, said: “After hearing of the attacks on the swan nest, I just felt that more needed to be done to teach people the importance of caring for the wildlife. 

"My children’s school held a quick assembly on the sadness of the swan attack. But I feel that it’s not enough. I feel children will have more understanding if they see the wildlife in action."

Photo: Gail Collins

Pam Jones, member of the Friends of Shaftesbury Lake volunteer group added: “Most of the problems with wildlife, and natural areas, aren't down to malice, more that people don't generally understand how to care for wildlife and/or the environment. 

"My personal hope is that people have a greater understanding of the wildlife, and realise that the lake is the animals' home, and we humans are just visitors so we need to respect the area. We are incredibly lucky to have such a variety of wildlife, insects and flora.”