Sports

Is it Safe to Hunt Waterfowl?

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

It has been about a month and a half since hunting season for geese and ducks opened. District Fish and Wildlife Officer Mike Hewitt made it clear that, “Healthy flying waterfowl are unlikely to be infected with avian influenza that pose any risk to hunters.”

Hewitt also pointed out that, “To date, no person has been infected with avian influenza directly from wild birds.”

He also made a couple of recommendations. “Basic hygiene including washing hands with soap and water, wearing latex gloves, and disinfecting work surfaces after processing wild birds are added precautions that further limit any potential risk.

A face mask and eye protection also can be used to reduce any potential risk. Of course, normal hunting and gun safety precautions should be followed at all times.”

The Government of Alberta recently released an update on the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, (HPAI). It stated that, “There is an extremely low risk to human health and no risk to food safety. While some strains have the potential to infect humans, previous cases of avian influenza in people have involved close contact with infected bird or heavily contaminated environments.

There is no effective vaccine or cure for this disease, which can be spread to farmed flocks during wild bird migratory season. Biosecurity is essential for protecting your flocks and preventing the disease’s spread.”

HPAI is a reportable disease, and if producers suspect or confirm a case in their flock, it must be reported to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, (CFIA).

CFIA reported on Sept. 22 that the total number of positive samples in waterfowl, (suspect and confirmed) was 1,408 with 203 of those samples in Alberta. That number was second highest in Canada, with British Columbia reporting 132 positive samples.

Duck and geese season ends Dec. 16, 2022. The season for Snow and Ross’s geese opens March 15, 2023 to June 5, 2023.

Slough near Chipman.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

What You Need When Hunting Migratory Birds

Are you curious about hunting migratory birds like snipes, gallinules, mourning doves, ducks and geese? First, check the regulations in your region to determine what weapons and shot are permitted. Beyond that, here’s a list of other equipment you’ll need to give your hunting party the best chance of success. • Any required permits • Bird calls that mimic the songs or cries of your target birds. • High-quality decoys to attract the birds; the more realistic, the better. • A warm, wind-proof hunting coat made of a breathable and waterproof material like Gore-Tex. Look for one with a hood to help you watch birds discreetly and keep you warm. • Hunting waders with a good range of motion to protect you from getting wet. • A hunting blind to hide you from potential prey. • Hunting gloves to keep your hands warm and ready to shoot when the moment is right.

To find everything you need for your hunting party or ask for personalized advice, vi¬sit a hunting outfitter in your area.

When planning your hunting trip, ensure you know the regulations in your region, like hunting areas and season dates, daily bag limits and approved bird species.