Sutton Council is falling under pressure to repair and refill Carshalton ponds amid warnings that prolonged low water levels could threaten local wildlife.
Residents discovered Carshalton ponds had emptied through the night of October 16, prompting Sutton Council to investigate the cause of the drainage.
But the pond beds remained largely exposed more than two weeks later, fuelling concerns about the potential impact on birds and fish.
Vuki Popovic, a volunteer rescuer with The Swan Sanctuary, said: “The exposed lakebed could make them more vulnerable to attacks from dogs and foxes.
“With water levels low and stagnant water persisting, there is an increased risk of conditions developing that could lead to harmful toxins affecting water birds.
“Much like an aircraft, swans require a run-up of approximately 25–30 metres to become airborne.
“As water levels drop, their ability to take off safely from Carshalton ponds may become increasingly restricted.
“We have encountered recurring incidents involving swans attempting to take off, colliding with trees or landing in nearby roads and even pub premises requiring rescue.”
On October 27, reports emerged of stranded birds being rescued from the ponds.
Sutton Council has said it is speaking with the Environment Agency about the welfare of fish present in the pond.
They added: “A large carp has safely been relocated to Beddington Park lake.”
In an online petition calling for more transparency over the repairs process, Sutton Conservatives said: “The wildlife that depends on these ponds, having experienced severe disruption in the summer heat, have again faced sudden and damaging habitat change and disruption.”
Sutton resident Maria Elena Navarro said: “I realised that levels dropped when I passed by on the bus.
“For me the ponds are an important ecosystem with species of birds and fish, and many types of plants.”
In a statement released on October 23, Sutton Council said: “To help protect wildlife we are in touch with local animal welfare charities and there are notices around the pond should members of the public see any wildlife in distress.
“Carshalton ponds are well-loved by the council and the local community and we will continue to work hard to find a long-term resolution to stop the ponds from losing water.”
In a statement released on October 30, Sutton Council said it is working with SES Water contractors to confirm why water levels have dropped so quickly.
They said: “While there is some obvious damage to a plug in the upper pond, the extent of the water loss to both ponds means the problem is complex and likely due to more than one reason.”
The Swan Sanctuary advises members of the public not to attempt to capture or chase distressed swans themselves, but to seek assistance from experienced rescuers.
Wildlife concerns can be submitted through The Swan Sanctuary’s online reporting service.
For severely distressed, injured or attacked birds, the emergency helpline is: 01932 240790.
Featured image credit: Stephen White
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