Biologist 'hazes' swans away from deadly lake

0 Comments | Deseret News (Salt Lake City), Jan 11, 2009 | by Phuong LeAssociated Press

If the bird banger, which resembles a bottle rocket, doesn't work, Smith shines a red laser at them to scare them away.

As a last resort, he will get into an airboat to physically chase them away. Starting up the roaring engine is usually enough to do the trick.

Within several hours, Smith has recorded a total of 34 swans hazed from the lake.

"You learn patience," he said. "It's like fishing for birds."

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On the Web:

University of Washington: depts.washington.edu/wacfwru/ index.shtml

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife: wdfw.wa.gov/

Trumpeter Swan Society: www.trumpeterswansociety.org/