Cooper City residents witnessed a disturbing incident over the weekend involving local wildlife and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
Video evidence from a resident depicts a scene of devastation with numerous geese and ducks either injured or deceased. According to Brian Schafler, a local resident, the area in question serves as a habitat for nearly 200 geese among other wildlife. On Saturday night, this sanctuary was shattered as ATVs reportedly plowed through the area, causing significant harm to the bird population.
Schafler recounted the harrowing experience, describing how he was initially alerted by the sound of a vehicle at around 7:40 p.m. When he looked outside, he observed the troubling scene of Egyptian geese and ducks scattered, some airborne in a state of panic. He noted, ‘They went back and forth savagely running over these birds in the evening,’ emphasizing the calculated nature of the act.
In the aftermath, Schafler attempted to salvage the situation by retrieving as many of the bodies as possible and providing aid to injured animals. Unfortunately, the extent of the damage was profound, with vultures seen circling the area the following day, and further reports of deceased birds remaining in the waterway on Monday.
The incident has sparked an investigation by the local authorities. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission directed inquiries to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, which has since canvassed the area. Meanwhile, there is an ongoing debate about the status of Egyptian geese, which, while non-protected in Florida, may be legally captured and killed under certain conditions. However, the residents stress that this incident was far from being a lawful culling.
Schafler and his family are offering a reward for any information that might lead to those responsible. The community vehemently condemns the act, describing it as heinous and meticulously orchestrated, given the timing during the birds’ resting hours.
The community of Cooper City is reeling from this distressing event and is actively seeking justice. Authorities continue their investigation, while residents remain hopeful for answers and preventative measures to protect the local wildlife in the future.
Source: Nbcmiami
