Victorian authorities have cut the number of ducks that can be killed during this year's duck hunting season.
The Game Management Authority says dry weather has affected duck populations across eastern Australia.
Reduced bag rates - set at 10 ducks for opening day, followed by a daily limit of five ducks - will apply for Victoria's 12-week hunting season.
In 2014, hunters could bag 10 ducks a day throughout the season.
"The changes to the 2015 duck season in Victoria reflect the fact that poor rainfall over the past two years has affected native duck numbers, and breeding and habitat availability," Victorian agriculture minister Jaala Pulford said.
As in 2014, there will again be special limits on the number of Blue-winged Shoveler ducks that can be killed.
The announcement of the season, coupled with the new limits, has drawn mixed reactions.
Field and Game Australia chairman Bill Paterson questioned the science behind reduced bag limits, but also urged hunters to abide by the rules.
"Although the reduced bag limits were disappointing, I hope all duck hunters will have a good season, comply with the regulations and hunt respectfully," he said on Wednesday.
Animals Australia and the Coalition Against Duck Shooting have condemned the government's decision to allow a duck hunting season in 2015.
"Last time conditions for native waterbirds were this bad, the recreational shooting seasons were cancelled," Animals Australia executive director Glenys Oogjes said.
"The minor modifications to the 2015 season won't make a difference, because they are still allowing a free-for-all on the opening day of the season." Victoria's duck hunting season starts on March 21.
© AAP 2024
