Help protect Victorian waterbirds | Duck Hunting

Help protect Victorian waterbirds

At a time when birds need government action the most, they are being forced to endure yet another threat to their survival - one that is entirely preventable.

Help give ducks hope, by giving them a voice. Ask Premier Allan, Minister Dimopoulos, and your local representatives when they will finally end recreational duck shooting in Victoria.

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Subject:

Your decision to continue allowing recreational shooting programs is devastating for our native birds.

It is well known that species on the hunting list show consistent long-term decline. The Eastern Australian Waterbird Survey, an independent survey conducted annually by experts at the University of New South Wales, shows waterbird populations have continued to decline.

Waterbirds are declining due to a range of threats – from habitat destruction, climate change and extreme weather events. In addition, waterbirds are particularly vulnerable to H5 bird flu. As we brace for the arrival of this devastating virus, it is vital to reduce disturbance to declining waterbird populations.

Regular human disturbance from duck shooting effectively reduces the extent of suitable habitat and increases the stress on individual birds through reduced feeding opportunities and increased energy expenditure; both of which may lead to increased disease susceptibility.  If an outbreak of H5 bird flu occurs in a wetland subject to duck hunting, infected birds will disperse and spread H5 bird flu to additional wetlands that may have otherwise been spared if it not for the disturbance of hunting activities.

The Freckled Duck and Australasian Shoveler are listed as threatened species in Victoria. Both are at risk of accidental shootings as they mix with other ducks and have regularly been documented as off-target kills. Last year at least 12 Freckled Ducks were retrieved by rescuers in Victoria, after being discarded by hunters, the true toll is likely far higher. Recreational duck hunting in Victoria adds unnecessary pressure to already struggling populations.

Back in 2023 the Victorian Government’s own Parliamentary Inquiry recommended an end to recreational native duck and quail hunting, with overwhelming support from Victorians. The state’s wetlands are highly valued by our communities. Yet they are closed to other visitors who value these environments for recreational activities, such as birdwatching, kayaking, and hiking, providing a valuable revenue for local economies through tourism-related businesses and enjoyment for communities who value the protection of their local environment.

To ensure a sustainable future for Victorian waterbirds, we must act to remove preventable impacts. We must put an end to recreational duck hunting in Victoria.

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