Concern for swans brings expert to Mundelein golf course

Concern over pond conditions for two wild swans living at Mundelein’s Steeple Chase Golf Club prompted nearby residents to summon an expert to survey the situation Monday.

North Barrington-based Knox Swan and Dog donated its services at the 203-acre course owned by the Mundelein Park and Recreation District and determined that despite low water levels, the swans are fine.

Park districts, business complexes and homeowner associations are among the company’s clients, which buy swans to combat Canada goose problems.

Company owner Bob Knox said Monday he responded to a call from some residents to survey the pond where the wild animals have been living. Despite the water-level worries stemming from the drought, he said, the pond the male and female swans selected is at least 2 feet deep and offers enough protection against predators such as coyotes.

“They still have plenty of water and plenty of food,” Knox said.

Some neighbors near Steeple Chase were concerned about whether the swans might need to be relocated if the pond water level was too low.

Both swans have molted, Knox said, meaning they have shed old feathers and grown new ones. The swans now can fly away from Steeplechase at any time because they have molted.