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A wet start to winter has made for happy hunting across the country.
Now underway, the game bird season appears promising due, in no small part, to wet weather, Fish & Game NZ’s Richie Cosgrove confirms.
“The increased rainfall has replenished wetlands, ponds and waterways across many regions, giving waterfowl more habitat to feed and roost.”
Wet conditions are expected to continue across the Auckland and Waikato regions. However, this can make hunting a little trickier when it comes to finding the best spots, Cosgrove confirms.
“With abundant standing water, ducks are likely to spread out, making them less predictable than in dry years when they concentrate on limited water,” he says.
“This means more effort will be needed to locate birds, and success will depend on adapting your hunting plan. In contrast to dry seasons, when birds are easier to find, wetter conditions reward preparation.”
Hunters who have undertaken pre-season scouting will be reaping the benefits already, he expects.
Once again, the assistance of farmers goes a long way towards a successful season.
“We want to thank those farmers who generously open their farms to hunters, many of whom are hunters themselves,” Cosgrove says. “Their support helps ensure that the tradition of game bird hunting continues for generations to come.”
Opening weekend was a busy time for hunters but there is still plenty of time to bag a bird – or many more! – Cosgrove adds.
“There is nothing quite like getting out into the wild with people you care about and coming home with wild kai for the table.”
Visit www.fishandgame.co.nz for details regarding bag limits, licences, firearm safety and more.
