May 23, 2013
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) -- Two tundra swans that were found dead in a Juneau game refuge were emaciated.
The Juneau Empire reports that one of the swans found in the Mendenhall Wetlands State Game Refuge on New Year's Eve was sent to the National Wildlife Health Center in Madison, Wis., to be examined. The center said that the cause for the emaciation was unknown. It ruled out poison.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game estimates there are about 100 tundra swans that visit Juneau each year on their migratory path. State biologist Ryan Scott says they are attracted to the refuge's tidal salt marshes where they feed on aquatic vegetation.
