Summer banding by Fish and Game NZ’s eastern region office reveals lower numbers of Mallard, Grey and hybrid Greylard species. Banding gives information to compare bird numbers with the previous breeding season, which helps in setting bag limits.
In some regions this will make the season shorter. Auckland/Waikato is one of the regions; the season will last only four weeks, two weeks down on last year.
The game bird manager at Auckland/Waikato Fish and Game, David Klee, told Rural News, “We have restrictive conditions in place this season. The main species are down, particularly Mallard, which is why we have had to reduce the season in order to manage harvests and create sustainability.
“In previous years we have had sufficient summer rainfall to provide birds with more options to move around to many ponds and dams, however this season birds will have limited choice of habitat.”
He suggests that, “hunters be flexible and look around for larger water areas such as rivers and lakes. Those fortunate enough to have permanent water will do fine.
“Hunting enthusiasts shouldn’t get too gloomy about the forecasts; there are birds around, and there have been positive duck breeding patterns heading into May. A high proportion of juvenile ducks were present in the banding experiments done by Fish and Game, which is very positive.”
Without speculating about other regions, Klee guesses most areas will likely be experiencing similar issues, mainly in the North Island, because of the drought. But the season looks promising in the South Island.
Andrew Currie, South Island communications advisor at Fish and Game told Rural News, “The forecast for next week is looking great with plenty of rain which should see this situation eased.
“Bird numbers are looking good too, many regions are conducting bird counts this week but early indications are there will be plenty of birds come opening weekend. Southland is even reporting there should be more birds than last season.
“Canterbury has had a good number of parries recorded over the summer, and Mallard numbers appear higher than previous years.”
Fish and Game eastern region officer John Meikle insists preparation in the weeks prior increases the chance of success.
“Good preparation may not guarantee a limit bag but will definitely enhance the chance of success.”
Fish and Game is also reminding hunters to get their licences and ensure they are complying with rangers’ and local regulations.
The game bird hunting season begins Saturday May 4.
