Maryland's Mute Swans: From 5 to 4,000 and Ecosystem Impact

Five mute swans escaped in Maryland in 1962, leading to a population surge of nearly 4,000 in the Chesapeake Bay. These invasive birds threaten local ecosystems by consuming underwater grasses and displacing native species, prompting wildlife managers to address their growing impact. The situation highlights the challenges of managing invasive species in sensitive environments.