MORE WATER THIS YEAR SHOULD HELP WATERFOWL HUNTING

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CHEYENNE - When good numbers of ducks and geese in the northern marshes are added to improved water conditions in Wyoming, the outlook for waterfowl hunters is good for the upcoming duck and goose seasons.

Game and Fish waterfowl biologist Larry Roberts said there are good numbers of ducks and geese that will be passing through Wyoming this year, but the time period when that will take place is up to the weather.   "When the northern lakes and ponds freeze up, the birds start moving," Roberts said. "If they find open water in Wyoming, they stop over for a while and that can provide good waterfowl hunting." Roberts added that Wyoming has improved water conditions this year which usually extends the open water period in lakes and ponds.  "If we have open water, we can hold birds in the state longer," Roberts said.

Roberts said the number of resident birds is up in the Central Flyway portion of the state.   "We have more water in the eastern part of the state and that has improved production of resident ducks from last year," Roberts said.  He added that the production in the Pacific Flyway is similar to last year and expects hunting to be about the same.

Waterfowl surveys earlier this year showed good numbers of birds.  Seasons vary depending on the flyway and zone, but most hunts for ducks and geese run into early to mid January.  Some run into late January or early February depending on the flyway, hunting zone or county. Hunters are advised to check the waterfowl regulations for seasons and bag limits for the different zones and flyways and the various species they will be hunting.
(Contact: Al Langston (307) 777-4540)

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