On the fate of barn swallows, voters in Rye pass conflicting ballot measures

By: Todd Bookman

Outlets: NHPR

Published: September 9, 2026

Words: 778

Last Updated: 1 week, 1 day ago


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Voters in Rye sent a mixed message on Tuesday, passing a measure that prohibits a migratory flock of barn swallows from entering a town-owned barn, while also approving a separate measure that forbids the disturbance of bird colonies. It’s the latest move in an ongoing saga that has resulted in heated public meetings and a lawsuit.

By a 1,248 to 1,113 vote, Rye approved a …