Media release from North Canterbury Fish & Game

Recent rain a real positive for duck shooters

24 April 2013

Media Release

Recent Rain A Real Positive For Duck Shooters

Recent rainfall across the South Island is a blessing for local game bird hunters, one week out from the opening of the season.

“The long, dry summer had impacted on ponds and waterways, with many regions reporting maimai, hides and stands as being high and dry, so the prolonged wet period has been very welcome.” says Andrew Currie, South Island communications advisor for Fish & Game.

Another positive sign has been the abundance of mallards across the region, with Fish & Game undertaking fixed wing flights over the last two weeks to monitor bird numbers. “The initial indication has been that the overall number of mallards was higher than the last few years and this mirrored the good spring which had provided ideal breeding conditions.” adds Mr Currie. Earlier flights had also suggested a good number of ‘parries’ (paradise shelduck) in the region too.

“With more rain forecast in the lead up to the season, and the number of birds in the sky - opening weekend could be a cracker.”

The season runs in the South Island until July 28 for mallards; please remember to check regional regulation booklets for variations to species and bag limits.

The season beings with ‘Opening Weekend’ on May 4, 2013 and hunters cannot begin shooting before 6.45am in the Central South Island and North Canterbury Fish & Game Regions.

Mr Currie also reminds game bird hunters to hunt safely and ethically, “and please remember to leave the alcohol until after the guns are put away.”

ENDS

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