Manitoba Experts Oppose Bird Season Changes

A group of six experienced hunters and wildlife experts from Manitoba has voiced strong opposition to proposed hunting seasons for tundra swans and mourning doves. These proposals, put forth by Environment and Climate Change Canada, could allow tundra swan hunting with 400 permits annually in Manitoba as soon as 2028. Experts like Ted Muir express significant concern that trumpeter swans, a species unable to be hunted, are nearly indistinguishable from tundra swans, leading to a high risk of accidental kills. Muir stated that distinguishing between the two is nearly impossible during hunting season. The group emphasizes they are not against hunting but believe this specific proposal is unwarranted and potentially harmful to trumpeter swan populations, which have only recently begun to recover.

Further concerns raised by the experts involve the public perception of hunters and the argument that resources could be better focused on addressing broader migratory bird population declines. James Duncan, a retired director of Manitoba's wildlife and fisheries branch, questioned the practical ability to differentiate species accurately, leading to potential bycatch. While the federal government estimates only three trumpeter swans might be accidentally killed annually, the experts deem this risk unacceptable. They are urging the public to contact their political representatives to voice opposition, framing it as a matter of common sense and conservation.

The Manitoba government acknowledges the proposals are in early stages and encourages public consultation. The Manitoba Wildlife Federation also commented, supporting sustainable hunting opportunities. Environment and Climate Change Canada has been contacted for further comment on the matter.