Petition gathers pace as birds 'killed by speeding motorists' in Walsall

A petition, backed by more than 3,500 people, was launched last month after four cygnets were believed to have been intentionally run over near the Stubbers Green nature reserve, in Aldridge.

People who signed the petition, which called for new traffic calming measures, claimed two of the young swans were killed instantly, while another two were seriously injured.

Now, residents are outraged after claims that three ducks have also been run over and left at the side of Stubbers Green Road.

Resident Wayne Mace said: "Baby swans were killed at Stubbers Green and three ducks have now been killed because of speeding in the area.

"We told Walsall Council how dangerous the road is that goes through the area where the birds are.

"We want something done about it.

"Birds are killed all the time and people are sick of it. It's only a matter of time before it happens again."

The petition, called 'Save Our Cygnets at Stubbers Green, Walsall' was set up on website change.org

It was signed by 3,150 people in just four days.

Supporters have asked for more to be done to protect the birds.

In the wake of the second incident, the petition has started to gather more pace, with nearly 3,700 people now backing the campaign.

Ann Lawrence, who set up the petition, said: "Three young female ducks were run over and killed in front of my eyes by a speeding driver on Tuesday afternoon.

"Stubbers Green is a 20mph zone but drivers do not slow down.

"I appeal to everyone to share the petition so that Walsall Council has to take notice."

Emily Turner, who also signed the petition, added: "So sad to hear this! All it takes is an extra few minutes to be patient and wait for them to cross.

"The signs are clearly not working so perhaps speed bumps should be put either side of where they cross, cars will have to slow down then."

To sign the petition, visit change.org/p/walsall-council-save-our-signets-at-stubbers-green-walsall

The RSPCA investigated the initial incident after complaints were made to them.

A spokeswoman at the time said: "We would be very concerned if a driver intentionally caused the deaths of two cygnets as described in this very sad incident which occurred in Stubbers Green, in Walsall, on June 8.

"This has been reported to us and we are looking into it."

The charity urged anyone who witnessed the incident, saw the white Fiat car involved or knew the identity of the driver to call 0300 123 8018.

Walsall Council was unavailable for comment.