Haitian Eating Ducks at Park: Debunking Rumors and Facts

Facts about the situation

• There are no credible reports of Haitian immigrants stealing ducks or other wildlife for food in parks
• Springfield police and officials have stated there is no evidence to support claims of Haitians eating ducks at park or harming wildlife
• Springfield Mayor Rob Rue confirmed that claims of Haitians stealing ducks from parks or geese being killed and eaten are unsubstantiated
• Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio are in the country legally and eligible for Temporary Protected Status, not engaging in immigrants hunting geese in public parks

Context of wildlife-related incidents

• Recent poaching incidents in Pueblo County, Colorado involve local residents, not immigrants eating ducks at park:
  • A pronghorn was killed on September 1 near Swallows State Wildlife Area
  • A mule deer doe was shot on September 12 near Lake Pueblo State Park
• These poaching incidents are being investigated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW)

Addressing misinformation

• Social media often amplifies false information and unsubstantiated claims about Haitians eating ducks at park or immigrants hunting geese in public parks
• A case of a cat being killed and eaten in Canton, Ohio involved a life-long Canton resident, not Haitians stealing ducks from parks
• The U.S. expanded Haitian eligibility for a humanitarian program in May 2021, granting deportation relief and work permits to an estimated 150,000 Haitians already living in the U.S.

Reporting genuine wildlife concerns

• If you suspect actual poaching or wildlife crimes, not related to Haitians eating ducks at park, report to local authorities:
  • Contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) or use Operation Game Thief at 877-265-6648
  • Email concerns to [email protected]
• Signs of legitimate poaching include hunting out of season, night hunting with spotlights, and taking more than legal limits, not immigrants hunting geese in public parks

FAQ

Are Haitians eating ducks at parks?

No, there is no credible evidence to support claims of Haitians eating ducks at parks. Local authorities have debunked these rumors and emphasized that such claims are unsubstantiated.

Is there any truth to rumors about Haitians stealing ducks from parks?

No, these rumors are false. Officials, including the Springfield Mayor, have confirmed that claims of Haitians stealing ducks from parks are unsubstantiated and lack any evidence.

Are immigrants hunting geese in public parks?

There is no evidence of immigrants hunting geese in public parks. These claims are part of unsubstantiated rumors often spread on social media without factual basis.

What should I do if I suspect actual wildlife poaching?

If you suspect genuine poaching or wildlife crimes, report it to local authorities. In Colorado, contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife or use Operation Game Thief at 877-265-6648. Do not report based on rumors about immigrants or Haitians.

What is the legal status of Haitian immigrants in the U.S.?

Haitian immigrants in places like Springfield, Ohio are in the country legally and are eligible for Temporary Protected Status. The U.S. expanded eligibility for a humanitarian program in May 2021, granting deportation relief and work permits to an estimated 150,000 Haitians already living in the U.S.