
In the quaint village of Manlius, New York, the presence of elegant white swans has been a cherished tradition for over a century. These mute swans have become an integral part of the village's identity, with their likeness adorning various symbols and events, including the annual 'Swan Fest' celebration.
However, a tragic incident in 2023, where one of the village's swans was violently killed, has sparked a contentious debate between the village and state regulators. The state views mute swans as an invasive species that disrupt ecosystems and pose various ecological challenges.