Coles Crossing, an upscale Cypress neighborhood, finds itself embroiled in a controversy over a pond filled with ducks, sparking heated debate among residents.
The pond, usually a serene spot for activities like dog walking and fishing, became the center of attention when two men were spotted with air rifles by a concerned neighbor last Tuesday evening. In a video shared with, the men claimed they were hired by the homeowners’ association to eliminate invasive ducks but had yet to succeed.
Richele Bartkowiak, a resident, expressed shock at the situation, emphasizing the lack of notification from the HOA to homeowners about the use of air rifles. She posted the video on social media platforms, igniting a flurry of comments and concerns among residents.
While acknowledging the nuisance caused by the ducks, some residents questioned the drastic measure of resorting to shooting them. Steven Robinson, another homeowner, sympathized with the frustration caused by the ducks but raised concerns about potential legal implications and the possibility of harming non-invasive and migratory species.
Reports indicate that efforts were made in February by a pest control company to capture the ducks using nets, but with limited success. Bartkowiak expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the HOA regarding the use of air rifles.
Residents are urging for transparency and a reconsideration of methods used to manage the duck population. has reached out to the HOA and the pest control company for comment, awaiting their response.