Duck hunters reminded on season end

Media release from Auckland/Waikato Fish & Game

Duck hunters reminded on season end

Hunters are reminded that the season for dabbling ducks – including mallards – ends in the Auckland/Waikato Fish & Game Region this Sunday (June 17th).

Mr Klee says that veterans and keen novices will know that these closures don’t mean having to pack up for the winter, as the paradise shelduck and swan season remains open until the 24th of June. And upland game birds including pheasant and quail, and Pukeko can still be hunted until August 26th.

He says the seasons set by the Auckland/Waikato Region Council for the different species are not arbitrary, they’ve been set based on ongoing monitoring, including hunter surveys, banding and trend counts conducted throughout the region.

The regulations provide for fines up to $5000 for shooting a game bird out of season, so it’s well worth taking some care to identify your target, he adds.

Mr Klee says with those penalties in mind, hunters are advised to check the bag limits and the seasons for the areas they intend to hunt. Check your regulation booklet for these details or the Fish & Game website www.fishandgame.org.nz

Fish & Game still wants to hear from hunters who harvest any birds with bands – by writing, phoning or emailing with details of the bird and its band number.

ENDS

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