It’s almost time for the return of some of Stratford’s most cherished residents.
The city’s swan release is scheduled for April 6.
Stratford Civic Beautification & Environmental Awareness Committee volunteers work with city staff to organize the swans and guide them to the Avon River, while being piped by the Stratford Police Pipes and Drums Band.
Committee member MJ Thomson said the birds start getting “antsy” prior to release.
“Once they hear the pipes warming up, they know it’s time to go to the river.”
What began as a parade in 1984 has transformed into a release with the safety of the birds paramount.
Hundreds of residents line the way to take in the occasion.
The committee is asking event-goers to pay attention to the barriers and to listen to the volunteers there to protect the swans.
The release starts at the swan’s winter quarters on Morenz Drive at 2 p.m., then travels down Lakeside Drive before the birds enter the river at North Street.
A total of 12 swans will be released this year.
