Migratory Birds
Shooting Hours: Shooting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset for all migratory bird seasons, except sandhill crane.
Use the map below to pick a region you would like to look at Waterfowl Reports.
CEDAR BLUFF - Last Updated: 3/22/2021 Print
GLEN ELDER - Last Updated: 3/30/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | ALL HUNTERS at Glen Elder WA are required to check in AND OUT daily. This regulation went into effect on September 1, 2017. Users are encouraged to utilize the iSportsman electronic daily hunting permit system. Go to https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ for more information. It is YOUR responsibility to know a property's regulations, refuge(s) and duck zone boundaries, etc. BEFORE you hunt. Survey ran on 3/29. This was our last survey until next fall. The light goose Conservation Order season is open through April. All other waterfowl seasons are CLOSED. Total ducks estimated to be 3,000 (60% mallards, 40% mix of all other puddle duck species) 3,000 snow geese (can vary a lot day-to-day) Estimating 300 Canada geese. Mallard Migration Index (2) |
| Water level | 2 foot above conservation pool. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor. Drakes have great color on them now for birdwatching and photography opportunities. |
| Expected hunting success | With dwindling numbers, poor for snow geese. |
| Comments | Granite Creek boat ramp is closed November 1 through January 31, 2021. Low Plains Early Duck Zone season is CLOSED until next fall. This zone includes the area north of Hwy 24. Low Plains Late Duck Zone season is CLOSED until next fall. This zone includes the area south of Hwy 24. Dark geese season is CLOSED until next fall. Whitefront season is CLOSED until next fall. Light geese season Conservation Order season is open Feb. 15 - April 30, 2021. Cawker City and Granite Creek Refuge closure dates are November 1st - January 31st. The Youth/ Mentor hunting area is located in the Granite Creek Refuge and is in effect from October 1 - January 31. Waterfowl hunting from the shoreline area is allowed in the Youth-Mentor Area as long as EACH adult is hunting with a youth 17 years or younger. Boats of any sort are prohibited in the Granite Creek Refuge. Zebra Mussels have been confirmed in Waconda Lake. Be sure to dry boats and equipment before moving to other waters. |
JAMESTOWN WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/22/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | ATTENTION: The Low Plains Early Zone Duck Season is CLOSED For The Year. 150 Canada Geese and 600 White Fronted Geese observed on 1/21/2021; 1,000 light geese with numbers fluctuating daily (sometimes hourly) The refuge is CLOSED. White-Fronted Goose Season will open back up on January 23, 2021. REMEMBER: Hunters are REQUIRED to check in and check out using iSportsman electronic daily hunt permit system when they hunt the area. This important information gathered from hunt permits helps managers tailor management practices specific to an area and hunter preference. |
| Water levels | All the major projects are finished and the area is holding good water levels for the upcoming waterfowl season. Gamekeeper Marsh is 98% full with an average water depth of 16 inches. Gun Club Marsh is 90% full with an average water depth of 12" to 14". Marsh Creek Marsh is 95% full. Buffalo Creek Marshes are 60% full with an average water depth of 12" with a lot of sheet water along the margins of the wetland units. Pintail Marsh is dry. Puddler and Bluewing marshes are dry. A rain or big snow would be beneficial. |
| Hunting conditions | Not many dark geese using the area. 10% ice as of 1/22/21. Ice will increase with the forecasted cold nights. Moist soil production was excellent this growing season. A major flood event in late July eliminated much of the Japanese millet that was planted, however there are excellent stands of smart weed and wild millet. Managers were unable to mow decoy holes in some of the units, so hunters need to scout to find natural open holes in the moist soil. Gamekeeper Marsh dam raise is allowing managers to inundate an additional 490 acres in Gamekeeper Marsh, creating excellent habitat in the refuge. Buffalo Creek Marshes have been pumped and several Marsh Creek off storage pools will be pumped throughout teal season. Remember: NO ATV's are allowed on department lands and roads. There is a no trash policy: If you take it in with you, please bring it out. This includes spent shotgun shells. ALL vehicles must remain on designated roads and parking areas. REFUGE IS CLOSED
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| Expected hunting success | 10% ice cover. However, goose numbers remain slim to none. The majority of the geese that are on the area are in the refuge. |
| Comments | REFUGE BOUNDARY CHANGE STARTING OCT 1, 2020 The NW corner of the Gamekeeper Marsh area that was open for hunting will now be included as refuge starting October 1, 2020. Puddler marsh was a youth/mentor marsh up until the fall of 2019 when managers opened it up to all hunting. That change, along with the additional 18 inch raise on Gamekeeper Dam will allow managers to move the youth mentor area to a special hunt area starting in the fall of 2021. The new refuge line will be along Highway 148 from the marsh creek bridge, north and east to the east boundary of the Wildlife Area. Click here for pdf map of the new area. Waterfowl Seasons Low Plains Early Zone Duck Season 12/19/2020 - 01/03/2021 Canada Geese 10/31/2020 - 11/01/2020 & 11/04/2020 - 02/14/2021 White-Fronted Geese 10/31/2020 - 01/3/2021 & 01/23/2021 - 02/14/2021 Light Geese 10/31/2020 - 11/01/2020 & 11/04/2020 - 02/14/2021 Light Geese Conservation Order 02/15/2021 - 04/30/2021 Hunters are REQUIRED to check in AND OUT using the electronic permitting system. Hunters need to create an account in iSportsman by going to https://kdwpt.isportsman.net and follow these simple directions:
Hunters need to make sure they have all the appropriate licenses and stamps for hunting waterfowl. The following are required: Kansas hunting license State waterfowl stamp Federal waterfowl stamp Kansas Harvest Information Program Stamp (HIP) RINGNECK MARSH IS DESIGNATED FOR YOUTH AND MENTORS ONLY. EACH HUNTER 16 YEARS AND OLDER MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY ONE OR MORE YOUTH UNDER 16 YEARS OLD. Marsh Creek Marsh and the West Gamekeeper Marsh is for non-gasoline powered boats or paddle-in / Walk-in only, this includes electric motor boats and boats with no motors. Gasoline engines are prohibited. Buffalo Creek & Pintail Marshes are for non-motorized boats and walk-in hunting only. HUNTERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO :
THE REFUGE IS CLOSED on the north half of Gamekeeper Marsh. REFUGE WILL REMAIN CLOSED THRU - JANUARY 31, 2021. The refuge boundary has shifted northwest to Highway 148. Please introduce youth and novice hunters to the outdoors. Pass it on! |
LOVEWELL RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 3/18/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 200 teal 100 pintails and 200 mallards. 150 Canada, 70 white-fronted and less than 1,000 light geese |
| Mallard Migration Ranking | |
| Water level | Lovewell Reservoir is at 1581.8 or 0.8 feet below Conservation Pool, (93.2% full) and holding as the BOR and Kansas Bostwick Irrigation District have reached the winter target elevation Conservation Pool elevation. Irrigation season releases ended 9/15/20. The Guide Rock Diversion canal inflows are at 0.2 cfs from the Republican River and are being used to refill the reservoir. |
| Hunting condition | The lake is mostly ice-free. Mudflats are ringing the entire reservoir and the water is a closer to the shoreline and concealing vegetation. Cropland fields snow free. CLOSED - DUCK SEASON - LOW PLAINS DUCK SEASON October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23-31, 2021 CLOSED -CANADA AND REGULAR LIGHT GOOSE SEASON October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 CLOSED - WHITE-FRONTED GOOS SEASON October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23 - February 14, 2021 OPEN - SPRING CONSERVATION ORDER FOR LIGHT GEESE February 15 - April 30, 2021 ALL boat ramps are OPEN. This includes Lovewell State Park and all on the Wildlife Area at Oak Hill, Pawnee Point and White Rock Creek. |
| Expected hunting success | POOR for geese on the reservoir. |
| Comments | PARK PERMIT REQUIRED TO ENTER THE STATE PARK PARK. NO HUNTING IS ALLOWED FROM THE SHORELINE OF THE STATE PARK. NEW REFUGE REGULATIONS: The land refuge closed to hunting and other activities year round. Water refuge in effect November 1 through April 15 on the NORTHEAST half of the reservoir and Wildlife Area from 1/8th mile west of the south end of the dam and following a buoy line northwest to the western boundary of the Cabin Area of the State Park. This area open to fishing south and east of the buoy line from the north end of the dam to the Lovewell State Park Twin Coves trailer area. Inlet canal closed to fishing September 15 through April 15. BOAT RAMPS: SEE HUNTING CONDITION FOR BOAT RAMP STATUS. The State Park boat ramps require a Kansas State Park Permit. The Wildlife Area Boat Ramps are Pawnee Point, Oak Hill and White Rock Creek do not require a permit. CAMPING CABINS are available in Lovewell State Park. Make reservations HERE HUNTERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO :
FOLLOWING SAFE AND ETHICAL PRACTICES WILL ENSURE THAT EVERYONE HUNTING PUBLIC LANDS ENJOYS A HIGH QUALITY EXPERIENCE. FREE daily hunt permits are REQUIRED for ALL HUNTING on the area. Electronic permits now available. Follow this link to get registered: https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ PAPER PERMITS ARE NO LONGER AVAILABLE. Contact the office for other arrangements. We thank you for your patience. Please introduce youth and novice hunters to the outdoors. Pass it on! |
NORTON - Last Updated: 3/23/2021 Print
SMOKY HILL/KANOPOLIS - Last Updated: 2/5/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 1400 ducks. 550 Canada geese, 700 light geese |
| Water level | 1462.82 ft and stable. Winter conservation level is 1463 ft |
| Hunting conditions | poor -low lake level result in no flooded vegetation |
| Comments | Refuge is CLOSED to all access from September 1st through January 31st. Waterfowl Seasons: Teal (low plains): September 12-27, 2020 Duck (low plains late zone): October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23-31, 2021 Canada Geese: October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 White-Fronted Geese: October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23 - February 14, 2021 Light Geese: October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 Light Geese Conservation Order: February 15 - April 30, 2021 Click HERE for duck season, regulation, and research information. Additional information about hunting at Kanopolis Reservoir can be found HERE |
TALMO - Last Updated: 1/22/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 600 Mallards; No Dark Geese Observed on 1/21/21. Numbers will decrease with forecasted cold nights as ice builds. REMINDER: ALL HUNTERS NEED TO CHECK IN TO HUNT USING iSPORTSMAN |
| Water level | All pools are approximately 90% full |
| Hunting conditions | Bird use is dependent upon ice conditions |
| Expected hunting success | The LPLZ second duck opener will be dependent on ice conditions. Ice will continue to increase with the forecasted cold nights. |
| Comments | Remember: - TALMO IS IN THE LOW PLAINS LATE ZONE Duck Season (second segment) - 1/23/2021 - 1/31/2021 - Hunters MUST check in DAILY with iSportsman when doing any hunting on the area - No ATV's are allowed on Department land and maintained roads. -ALL shotgun hunters must use NON-TOXIC shot -No motorized boats allowed. Hunters wanting to utilize boats must carry/paddle them in. -The area has a no trash policy. If you take it in, please bring it back out with you. This includes spent shotgun shells. -ALL vehicles MUST remain on the roads and designated parking areas only. |
WEBSTER - Last Updated: 1/22/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 5,000-10,000 ducks. Mostly mallards with other species mixed in. 3,000 Canada geese. 150,000-175,000 snows. |
| Water level | 1890.90'; 1.55' below conservation pool; water levels have been slowly increasing. Shallow areas are frozen or are freezing. Ice is forming in deeper areas out of the wind. |
| Hunting conditions | Lowered lake level has resulted in exposed shorelines with little vegetation; some mud flats present. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair to Good. |
| Comments | Click HERE to download a PDF of the waterfowl area. Click HERE for a Google Earth map of the waterfowl area. Refuge and non-motorized boat area dates: Nov. 1 through Feb. 14. There is a non-motorized boat area at Webster that is walk-in only that is intended for shore hunters. The area starts at the southeast corner of the reservoir and goes west to Morel boat ramp. See the attached PDF and Google Earth file for boundaries. This regulation is in effect from Nov. 1 through Feb. 14. Hunting in or from the shoreline inside the State Park or along the face of the dam is prohibited. Please see the attached PDF and Google Earth file to see updated refuge boundaries and dates. Closed areas will be marked with buoys. Be advised that the refuge will be closed to hunting until the end of dark goose season. Blue/Green Algae Webster is not currently on the blue-green algae watch/warning list. Webster Reservoir currently does not have zebra mussels. Please be sure equipment is cleaned and dry before coming to Webster from other places. Teal Season September 12-27, 2020 Duck Season on Webster Reservoir October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23-31, 2021 Youth Weekend, Duck and Goose October 24-25, 2020 Goose Season on Webster Reservoir CANADA GEESE October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 WHITE-FRONTED October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23 - February 14, 2021 LIGHT GEESE October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 LIGHT GOOSE CONSERVATION ORDER February 15 - April 30, 2021 ICE CONDITIONS 0%
Webster Wildlife Area and Refuge Map 
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WILSON - Last Updated: 3/5/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 5,000+ geese. Combination of Canada's, Snow's, and Greater-White Fronts all present. 3,000+ ducks. Mostly Redheads, Pintails, and Teal present with Mallards, Shovelers, and diving ducks scattered throughout. |
| Water level | 1515.47 ft and steady; lake is 1/2 foot low. (Conservation pool is 1516.0 ft) |
| Hunting conditions | Cedar Creek and Elm Creek boat ramp both open Geese are concentrating on agriculture fields within the Wildlife Area. The majority of the lake is ice free, with sections still froze on the East side. |
| Expected hunting success | fair |
| Comments | Duck season is now closed. Regular goose season is now closed. Spring Conservation season remains open thru 04/30 Low Plains Late: October 31-January 3; January 23-31, 2020 Zebra mussels are in Wilson Lake, so be sure to drain/dry/clean boats and equipment before moving to other areas. Click HERE for Duck Season, Regulation, and Research information. Click HERE for hunting regulations in Lucas Park, Minooka Park, and Sylvan Park. |
This is a collection of all the Northeast Waterfowl Reports
9PERRY WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/29/2021 Print
BENEDICTINE WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/26/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Mallard Migration Rank: 1 (Estimate of potential mallard numbers. 1=lowest, 10=highest) |
| Water level | A map of our wetlands is now available under the Wetland Map tab to the right. Waterfowl have been seen using the wildlife area in moderation. The refuge wetlands are holding some waterfowl, mainly Mallards and Canada Geese. The large wetland west of the shop and refuge wetland are both holding good amounts of water. Minimal waterfowl activity is occurring at both sites, although numbers are increasing with the cold coming in. Snow and Canada Geese flocks are flying over the area on a daily basis. The smaller wetlands on the west end of the wildlife area are NOT being pumped at this time due to pump failure. This issue will more than likely not be resolved before the end of the waterfowl season. Refuge(NOT open to hunting) October 1 through March 31 the area can only be accessed with a special permit obtained through a drawing. Look for "Special Hunts" on our home page under "HUNTING". |
| Hunting conditions | Very good wetland vegetation in all complexes. Native vegetation such as annual smart weeds, barnyard grass, and sunflowers are the most common vegetation. |
| Expected hunting success | Currently waterfowl numbers have been low. Some waterfowl have been using the large wetland southwest of the shop. Mallards and Canada Geese are using the Missouri River at this time. |
| Comments | The wetlands have some of the best food source vegetation possible. REFUGE IS CLOSED TO HUNTING. |
CLINTON - Last Updated: 2/10/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers |
Last waterfowl survey results: 4,738 total waterfowl observed (1/22/21). Updated waterfowl survey results will be posted before 2-12-21. |
| Lake level | 875.10 elevation The reservoir is 0.4 feet below normal pool. A thick and growing layer of ice has formed. |
| Hunting conditions | Lake- The lakeshore and shallow mudflats have produced good food and habitat for large numbers of waterfowl, which have been regularly using many areas on or near Clinton Reservoir. Coblentz & East Coblentz- The North, Middle, and East pools of Coblentz have water (ice) and food available for waterfowl. Shadden marsh is dry. Elk Creek- marsh is dry and can only be filled by rain and runoff currently. The extreme flooding in 2019 destroyed the marsh pump and KDWPT staff is in the process of replacing it with an improved pump. Until the pump is replaced, the only way to fill the pools is rainfall. *Construction contractors are working on the replacement of the Elk Creek marsh pump. This project will be completed before start of 2021 waterfowl season.* Clinton Wildlife Area contains miles of creeks, rivers and oxbows on the wildlife area; each of which has unique conditions and frequently hold waterfowl when weather and/or pressure pushes them from marsh pools. The refuge is OPEN. |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | IMPORTANT! Clinton Wildlife Area is utilizing an electronic check-in system required of all hunters. To register, please go to https://kdwpt.isportsman.net. This is mandatory for everyone hunting the wildlife area, not just waterfowl hunters. The card survey stations have been removed. Plan ahead and sign up for I-sportsman now. Please remember that trapping is also allowed on the Wildlife Area. Elk Creek (Wakarusa River) and Coon Creek (Lake) boat ramps are open. Rock Creek Boat ramp is closed; a gravel launch area for canoes and kayaks is available when lake is near normal pool. |
HILLSDALE - Last Updated: 4/2/2021 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | The Hillsdale Wildlife Area has experienced a much more normal year in regards to water levels in 2020 in comparison to 2019. All marshes were able to be gradually drained in order to provide a growing environment for moist soil vegetation throughout the year. A fair amount of natural moist soil vegetation has grown throughout all of the marshes on the Hillsdale Wildlife Area. Japanese millet and buckwheat have also grown with high success in the Big Bull Wetland along with the Antioch Wetland. All of these factors should provide ample feeding opportunities for migrating waterfowl throughout the season. Currently, spring water level draw downs are taking place. Water levels will continue to gradually drop throughout the spring. Heavy rains have slowed this process in the last week.
Waterfowl counts given on this report are based on what was observed on the day the report is updated. Waterfowl numbers vary greatly from day to day and weather conditions and hunting pressure will affect the numbers of waterfowl on the area. Weather has warmed up dramatically over the last week. Most of the waterfowl seem to have moved on with the exception of Blue-winged teal. Nearly 700 blue-winged teal were surveyed on the marshes and on the main body of the lake this week. There are still a few Canada Geese around the area, and they have split up into small groups of 5-10. Small numbers of wood ducks, ring-necked ducks, Northern Shovelers, and a few redheads were also counted this week. This will be the final waterfowl survey and report for the 2020-2021 migration. |
| Water Level | Antioch Wetland - 3/4 Browns Wetland, Upper pool - 1/2 Browns Wetland, Lower pool - 3/4 Youth-Mentor Wetland - Empty Wade Branch Wetlands - 3/4, Empty Hillsdale Lake - See Army Corps Daily Report ICE CONDITION - 0% ice cover on lake. 0% ice cover on wetlands |
| Comments | Reminder - an electronic permit/sign-in on Isportsman is required for all hunting on Hillsdale Wildlife Area. All hunters (youth included) must register online and create an individual account. Hunters can then check in using the I-sportsman system from any phone or internet device. This can be done immediately before the hunt or the night before the hunt. The information and harvest data collected, along with comments received are very useful in establishing future management goals for the Hillsdale State Wildlife Area. https://www.ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Migratory-Birds/Ducks for more information on seasons and limits. |
JEFFREY ENERGY CENTER - Last Updated: 2/12/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Ducks: A mix of 100 or so ducks on the area. Geese: Snow geese are still utilizing Auxillary lake and the surrounding private fields throughout the area, however numbers have seemed to drop off significantly. Auxillary lake has developed ice across approximately half of the lake and the cold snap of weather has seemed to push the geese off of the area. Numbers are <5,000. Canada geese are utilizing the area and numbers are around 4,000 between the three area lakes. A reminder that only Auxillary lake is open to waterfowl hunting. |
| Water level | Normal |
| Hunting conditions | Fair |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | Make-up Lake is closed to waterfowl hunting during waterfowl season. Boats are not allowed on Auxillary lake during waterfowl season. Individuals wishing to hunt Unit #2 of the wildlife area must enter through the main gate and sign in at the guard house. Be sure to have a photo I.D. with you when checking in. Hunters are required to drive maintained roads only. A map will be provided to all hunters showing open roads as well as parking areas. Vehicles are allowed to park in parking areas only. |
MILFORD WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/28/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Waterfowl counts given on this report are based on what was observed on the day the report is updated. Waterfowl numbers vary greatly from day to day and weather conditions and hunting pressure will affect the numbers of waterfowl on the area. Throughout the week, a handful of ducks and geese were observed due to wetland area and reservoir having some ice. |
| Lake level | Current Lake Level is 1143.35 and Conservation Pool is 1144.4 The dam is releasing 700 CFS. The inflow into the lake is 233 CFS. |
| Hunting conditions | Vegetation growth and seed production has been average this year with amount of rainfall and flooding the wetlands have received. Mall Creek and Lower Smith/Gatesville boat ramps are open. Wetlands that have water are Mall Creek, Sugarbowl, Lower smith and Quimby. The pumps for Beichter/Martin, Youth/Mentor, Zach and North Smith are off for the season. Be mindful of the silt that has moved into many of the flooded areas. Even in areas where the water appears shallow the silt may be very soft and very deep. Use caution in these areas. No activites/hunting allowed in the Steve Lloyd Wetland/Refuge. Motorized boats are only allowed in the Mall Creek wetland, electric motors are considered "motorized". All other public hunting wetlands are open to NON motorized boats and walk in hunting. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | Do NOT drive on dikes. Vehicles disrupt and discourage waterfowl from using the wetland areas. We have had several dikes being damaged due to unauthorized vehicles driving on them. Scouting is best done on foot to evaluate bird numbers and habitat conditions. Please report any vehicles on dikes and anyone seen disturbing our pumps. Without the pumps in optimal condition we are unable to pump the wetlands to their greatest potential. Do NOT drive on barricaded roadways. Hunter's need to be aware of their targets before shooting. The area is a no trash policy, so if you take it in, please bring it back out with you. This includes spent shotgun shells Remember - an electronic permit/sign-in on Isportsman is required for all hunting on Milford Wildlife Area. All hunters (youth included) must first register online by creating an account. Hunters can then check in using the I-sportsman system from any phone or internet device. The information collected and comments received are very useful in establishing future management goals for the area. https://www.ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Migratory-Birds/Ducks for more information on seasons and limits. |
TUTTLE CREEK WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/28/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 0 ducks 10 Canada Geese Mallard Migration Rank (0-10) =10 |
| Water level | The lake is currently at 1075 and increasing slowly. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | A permit/survey is required to hunt the Tuttle Creek Wildlife Area. Know your target, there are a few swans using the area. Don't mistake them for light geese. |
This is a collection of all the Southwest Waterfowl Report
CHEYENNE BOTTOMS - Last Updated: 3/18/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | No snow geese. Only a few nesting pairs of Canada Geese. Duck numbers are over 150,000 with a wide variety of species present. If the report has not been updated in a few days, please assume that conditions and bird numbers are the same as the last update. |
| Water level | 1A-50", 1B-48", 1C-48", 2-18", 3A-8", 3B-13", 4A-trapped shallow water, 4B-10", 5-10". |
| Hunting conditions | Pool 2-multiple holes have been sprayed out, 733 acres of phragmites was sprayed. Pool 3A-all blind islands repaired, cattail control complete, 67 acres milo, 70 acres wheat, 534 acres millet. Pool 3B-small areas of millet planted, some moist soil plants. Pool 4A all cattails were sprayed last year, burned almost all dead cattails, some moist soil plants, disked about 400 acres in the back of the pool, 251 acres planted to wheat. 4B- disked around 120 acres of cattails, 24 acres milo, 145 acres millet, good moist soil plants. Pool 5-Good moist soil plant production. |
| Expected hunting success | Hunters averaged 3.74 birds per hunter during teal season, 3.40 birds per hunter during the youth/military weekend, 2.62 birds per hunter during regular season. |
| Comments | Use footcrossings in Pools 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4B as the ditches have been cleaned out and are very deep. 3A IS CLOSED TO MOTORIZED BOATS MOTORIZED BOATS ALLOWED ONLY DURING OPEN WATERFOWL SEASON. THIS MEANS NO SCOUTING FROM A MOTOR BOAT PRIOR TO SEASON LEGAL SHOOTING HOURS ARE 30 MINUTES BEFORE SUNRISE TO SUNSET. UNLAWFUL TO SHOOT FROM ROADS OR DIKES ON THE WILDLIFE AREA. DO NOT PARK BLOCKING ROADS, GATES, BOAT RAMPS, FOOT CROSSINGS, ETC. DO NOT LAUNCH TRAILERED BOATS FROM DIKES OR FOOT CROSSINGS. ANY BOATS ON A TRAILER MUST USE DESIGNATED BOAT RAMPS. NO TRASH POLICY ON THE WILDLIFE AREA. CAMP IN DESIGNATED CAMPGROUND ONLY 1 DRAWN SPECIAL HUNT FOR 1 PARTY OF 3 YOUTH WILL BE HELD EACH SATURDAY MORNING OF REGULAR DUCK SEASON IN POOL 5. CHECK OUT KSOUTDOORS.COM TO APPLY AND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPECIAL HUNTS PROGRAM. Teal - Sept. 12-27, 2020 Youth/Military/Veteran - Oct. 3-4, 2020 Ducks, Low Plains Early Zone - Oct. 10-Dec. 6 and Dec. 19- Jan. 3, 2021 Goose Seasons: Canada - Oct. 31- Nov. 1, 2020 and Nov.4, 2020-Feb. 14, 2021 Whitefront - Oct. 31-Jan. 3, 2021 and Jan. 23-Feb. 14, 2021 Light - Oct. 31- Nov. 1, 2020 and Nov.4, 2020-Feb. 14, 2021 Light goose conservation order - Feb. 15-April 30, 2021 iSportsman (electronic daily hunt permit system) will be required of all hunters this fall. There will not be any cards available this year, so please set up an iSportsman account prior to this hunting season. Hunters are required to use the electronic Daily Hunt Permit system. HUNTERS NEED TO CREATE AN ACCOUNT IN iSportsman BY GOING TO https://kdwpt.isportsman.net AND FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE DIRECTIONS: 1. Scroll down the left side of the page to the blue "register" button. 2. Provide hunter information. ONCE REGISTERED, HUNTERS WILL BE ABLE TO CALL OR LOG ONTO THE SYSTEM SEPTEMBER 1 AND GET THEIR PERMIT FOR THE DOVE OPENER. THEY CAN ALSO VISIT THE CHEYENNE BOTTOMS WILDLIFE AREA PAGE ON iSPORTSMAN AT https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/Locations/Cheyenne_Bottoms.aspx |
ISABEL - Last Updated: 1/28/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | No open water on 1/28. No waterfowl observed. |
| Water level | The pool adjacent to Hwy. 42 is full. The main lake is full. The pool south of the main lake is full. |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Teal Season (Low Plains Zone): September 12-27, 2020 Youth Waterfowl (Low Plains Late Zone): October 24-25, 2020 Ducks (Low Plains Late Zone): October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021, and January 23-31, 2021 Canada Geese: October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 White-Fronted Geese: October 31, 2020 - January 3, 2021 and January 23 - February 14, 2021 Light Geese: October 31 - November 1, 2020 and November 4, 2020 - February 14, 2021 Hunters are encouraged to use the electronic Daily Hunt Permit system this year. KDWPT IMPLEMENTED AN ELECTRONIC PERMIT SYSTEM STARTING THE 2015-2016 HUNTING SEASONS HUNTERS NEED TO CREATE AN ACCOUNT IN iSportsman BY GOING TO https://kdwpt.isportsman.net AND FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE DIRECTIONS: 1. Scroll down the left side of the page to the blue "register" button. 2. Provide hunter information. ONCE REGISTERED, HUNTERS WILL BE ABLE TO CALL OR LOG ONTO THE SYSTEM SEPTEMBER 1 AND GET THEIR PERMIT FOR THE DOVE OPENER. PAPER PERMITS ARE NO LONGER AVAILABLE AT ISABEL WETLANDS. iSportsman WILL BE USED EXCLUSIVELY ON THIS AREA IN 2020-2021. Only non-toxic shot is allowed on Isabel Wetland Wildlife Area for all species. |
TEXAS LAKE - Last Updated: 12/23/2020 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Approximately 200 ducks - mallard, wigeon. |
| Water levels | Currently, pools 1, 2, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8 are full. Pool 9 is 50% full . There is water north of pool 6. The remaining pools are dry. |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | |
| Comments | Teal Season (Low Plains Zone): 9/12/20-9/27/20 Youth Waterfowl (Low Plains Early Zone): 10/3/20 - 10/4/20 Regular Ducks (Low Plains Early Zone): 10/10/20 - 12/6/20 and 12/19/20 -1/3/21 Goose Seasons: Canada: 10/31/20 - 11/1/20 and 11/4/20 - 2/14/21 Whitefront: 10/31/20 - 1/3/21 and 1/23/21 - 2/14/21 Light: 10/31/20 - 11/1/20 and 11/4/20 - 2/14/20 KDWPT IS CONTINUING AN ELECTRONIC PERMIT SYSTEM FOR THE 2020-2021 HUNTING SEASONS HUNTERS NEED TO CREATE AN ACCOUNT IN iSportsman BY GOING TO https://kdwpt.isportsman.net AND FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE DIRECTIONS: 1. Scroll down the left side of the page to the blue "register" button. 2. Provide hunter information. ONCE REGISTERED, HUNTERS WILL BE ABLE TO CALL OR LOG ONTO THE SYSTEM SEPTEMBER 1 AND GET THEIR PERMIT FOR THE DOVE OPENER. PAPER PERMITS MAY STILL BE AVAILABLE AT SOME OF THE INFORMATION CENTERS, HOWEVER, WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO USE THE iSPORTSMAN ELECTRONIC CHECK-IN SYSTEM AS IT WILL BE USED EXCLUSIVELY IN FOLLOWING YEARS. Only non-toxic shot is allowed for all shotgun hunting at Texas Lake Wildlife Area. |
This is a collection of all the South Central Waterfowl Reports
CHENEY - Last Updated: 2/9/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Large numbers of Canadian and Snow geese using reservoir and area crop fields. |
| Water level | 1.07 feet below Conservation Pool on reservoir. Area ponds are dry. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor The reservoir was at a nearly full level most of the summer, so very few native food producing plants were able to establish along the shoreline. The recent drop in water level has left a large stretch of bare ground between concealment cover and water around most of the wildlife area. Despite the lack of food plants, hunting should improve if the reservoir comes back up. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | Cheney Wildlife Area is located in the Low Plains Late Zone Low Plains Late Zone Youth/Veteran/Military Season is Oct. 24-25, 2020. Low Plains Late Zone Duck Season is Oct 31, 2020-Jan 3rd, 2021, and Jan 23-31, 2021. Daily bag limit: 6 Six ducks is the daily bag limit, with species and sex restrictions as follows: 5 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 3 wood ducks, 2 redheads, 2 canvasbacks, 1 pintail, and 1 scaup. The daily bag may comprise six of any other duck, such as six teal, six gadwall, or six wigeon. Possession limit: Three times the daily limit. The refuge at Cheney Wildlife Area, located on the south side of Pretty Prairie Rd between Obee Rd and Kent Rd, extends out from the shoreline 100 yards into the water. What this means is that water along the shoreline of the refuge is included in the restricted access area and is off limits to hunting. Accessing the refuge by boat or hunting near the refuge shoreline is not permitted. Remember Cheney Reservoir has ZEBRA MUSSELS. Make sure to Clean, Drain and Dry your equipment. Clean all visible vegetation and mud from decoys, bags, waders, etc. Drain water from decoy bags and boats. Allow equipment to Dry for a five day period before using it at another area, OR wash with high-pressure hot water. Many of the roads around the reservoir can get very greasy after rain, or melting snow, please use good judgement about which roads you try to travel on. Area roads are in the process of being upgraded - please use caution as some gravel may not have been fully spread. Off road vehicle use is strictly prohibited. Please report all wildlife and public lands violations that you witness by calling the area headquarters at (620) 459-6922. Please leave a detailed message with violation specifics. In the event of an emergency, please call 911. |
BYRON WALKER - Last Updated: 1/29/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Welcome to 2020-2021 waterfowl! Approximately 200 ducks and 30 geese on the area this morning. |
| Water level | Kingman State Fishing Lake is full. 2/3 of the lake and all the marshes and ponds are frozen as of Friday, January 29. Millet was planted in all marshes this year. We have 5 marshes flooded north and west of the lake and 2 marshes south of 54 flooded at the current time. |
| Hunting conditions | As of 12/28/20, all water was open and conditions were good. WARNING-New rip rap has been added to the Kingman State Lake dam and until the metal has been removed, it poses a hazard to hunters, fishermen, and their dogs. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair. So far, duck numbers have not increased greatly! |
| Comments | Hunters! A kayak/canoe launch is available on the dam just west of the refuge line to aid launching boats across the rip rap. Also, we have a heavy equipment contractor removing trees below the dam this week. The dam road may be closed during the week to keep our visitors safe from falling trees and the heavy equipment. |
COUNCIL GROVE - Last Updated: 3/11/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | No snow geese observed on 3/11/21. |
| Water levels | 2.0 feet below conservation elevation (1,274') on 3/11/21. |
| Hunting conditions | Full lake levels persisted through the summer and prevented the establishment of food producing plants along lake edges. As such, food resources are diminished within lake environments. Dry conditions have prevailed this fall. Lake levels are slowly declining. Hunters should be prepared to find water pulled away from cover edges within portions of upper reaches of the lake. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor. |
| Comments | Duck and dark goose seasons are now CLOSED. Light goose spring conservation order is open though April 30. |
EL DORADO - Last Updated: 2/26/2021 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | No light geese observed at this time. 2/26/21 |
| Water level | At 1338.36' approximately .63' below conservation elevation (1339'). Approximately 99% ice coverage on the lake. |
| Hunting conditions | Fair. Most of the summer the lake was at or slightly above conservation pool creating a significant amount of shoreline cover. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair |
| Comments | NOTE: El Dorado Lake is located within the Low Plains Southeast Zone. Light Geese, Conservation Order - Statewide
|
KAW WILDLIFE AREA. - Last Updated: 1/28/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | There is approximately 75 waterfowl and some geese are using the river at this time. |
| Water level | Normal |
| Hunting conditions | Poor/Fair |
| Expected hunting success | Poor/Fair |
| Comments | TEAL, LOW PLAINS ZONE Season: Sept. 14-27, 2020 Area open: East of Hwy. U. S. 283 Daily bag limit:6 Possession limit:18 Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Stamp, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp DUCKS, LOW PLAINS SOUTHEAST ZONE Season: November 14, 2020 - January 3, 2021 AND January 9-31, 2021 Area open: Southeast Zone (see map) Daily bag limit:6 Possession limit: Three times the daily limit |
MCPHERSON VALLEY WETLANDS - Last Updated: 2/26/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | ATTENTION: i-Sportsman is REQUIRED to hunt this area. All hunters MUST use the electronic daily hunt permit system! Please check in, report your harvest, and check out using i-Sportsman for each and every hunt. Friday, 26 February 2021: The Low Plains Early Zone duck season is CLOSED. Goose seasons close Sunday, February 14th. Goose seasons: Light goose spring conservation order - 15 February - 30 April 2021 At noon on Friday the wetlands were 85% frozen. Approximately 11,000 snow geese and 5,000 dark geese were observed on the area Friday morning. Goose numbers are highly variable and fluctuate daily. See "Water Levels" below for more information. Remember that all activities in both the north and south refuges are prohibited. |
| Current Information | Groundwater pumping is now complete for the season. At the time of this posting the roads were in good shape. |
| Water levels | Big Basin: The wetlands north of Moccasin Road are looking the best at this time. The center complex (Pools 7, 9 and 10) is almost completely dry, and Pool 8 is at about 25% capacity. The area needs to see a good runoff rain event! Chain of Lakes: The west unit of the Chain of Lakes will likely be kept dry during the 2020 - 2021 season for continued cattail control and replacement of a water control structure. Little Sinkhole Unit: The south and west sides of this unit are looking the best relative to water, although a few of the other wetlands have a huntable amount of water at the time of this update. |
| Hunting conditions | Waterfowl food production (native moist soil vegetation) has been fairly good across the area this year, and approximately 240 acres of millet was planted in various wetlands. The wetlands are in serious need of a good rain with abundant runoff! |
| Expected hunting success | Fair if water levels stabilize. |
| Comments | ATTENTION: MPWL has transitioned to a new daily permit system called Isportsman. Hunters will need to register with i-Sportsman prior to hunting at MPWL. Hunters will login (or call) each day prior to hunting to get a daily permit, and report harvest similar to the paper daily permits. Please visit https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ to register prior to hunting season. Kansas hunters should be aware that iSportsman Electronic Daily Hunt Permits are required on 25 wildlife areas, including McPherson Valley Wetlands (check the 2020 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary or kdwpt.isportsman.net for a list). iSportsman replaces the old paper permits and allows hunters to conveniently check in and out using a telephone, smartphone or home computer. As with the old paper system, information gathered helps area managers tailor management practices specific to an area and hunter preference. The paper system was inconvenient for hunters and labor intensive for managers. **THERE IS A "NO TRASH POLICY" IN EFFECT AT MCPHERSON VALLEY WETLANDS. PLEASE CARRY OUT WHATEVER YOU CARRY IN, INCLUDING EMPTY HULLS AND OTHER TRASH. PLEASE TRY TO LEAVE YOUR HUNTING SPOT AS CLEAN OR CLEANER THAN IT WAS WHEN YOU ARRIVED. THANKS!!! REFUGE AREAS: THE SOUTH REFUGE AREA IN THE BIG BASIN IS OFF-LIMITS TO ALL ACTIVITIES, AND THIS INCLUDES DUCK HUNTING. THERE IS NO HUNTING OR PUBLIC ACCESS OF ANY KIND ALLOWED IN THE REFUGE!! The Little Sinkhole/Farland Lake marsh unit is included in the EARLY low-plains duck zone (as is the rest of MPWL). All shotgun hunters at McPherson Wetlands are required to use non-toxic shot for all hunting. This includes upland birds. |
SLATE CREEK WETLAND - Last Updated: 1/28/2021 Print
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Waterfowl numbers | There are approximately 25 ducks present and some geese in the area at this time. |
|
Water level | All pools have water in them. |
| Hunting conditions | Poor |
| Expected hunting success | Poor |
| Comments | SCWL is using a new daily permit system called Isportsman. Hunters will need to register prior to hunting at SCWL. Hunters will login (or call) each day prior to hunting to get a daily permit, and report back harvest similar to the paper daily permits. Please visit https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ to register prior to hunting season. TEAL, LOW PLAINS ZONE
DUCKS, LOW PLAINS LATE ZONE
Also, all shotgun hunters at Slate Creek Wetlands are required to use non-toxic shot for all hunting. This includes upland birds. Keep in mind, during and after rain events, area roads become very greasy. Please use caution and good judgment before entering these roadways. Please report all wildlife and public lands violations that you witness by calling the area headquarters at (620)-876-5730. Please leave a detailed message with violation specifics. |
MARION - Last Updated: 1/29/2021 Print
| Waterfowl Numbers | As of 1-29 waterfowl numbers on the reservoir are approximately 4000. Most of the ducks are Mallard at approximately 1000, along with 750 Gadwall, and 150 Goldeneye. The reservoir is also holding around 2000 Canada geese. Numbers can change daily. |
| Mallard Migration Rating | Current Rating=8 The rank is subjective and is from (0= No Mallards, 1=Very few Mallards, 5=Moderate numbers, 10= Peak numbers). |
| Water level | Lake level is at 1349.16 (Conservation pool is 1350.50) |
| Hunting conditions | Fair. The reservoir was at or near conservation pool most of 2020. There was very little natural food production along the shoreline this year in the way of moist soil vegetation like barnyard grass and yellow nut sedge. Some of the acres close to the shore that were flooded in 2019 do have ample production, and crops on the area look good. Corn harvest was about three weeks behind, area wide, so there should be ample amounts of scrap corn on the ground that won't get a chance to germinate. There is also good cover along the shoreline and in the smaller coves. Water levels are going down, leaving quite a bit of bare ground between shoreline cover and the waters edge. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor. |
| Comments | The refuge at Marion Wildlife area, located on the south west part of the reservoir along French creek, extends out from the shoreline 100 yards into the water. What this means is that approximately 110 acres of water along the shoreline of the refuge are included in the restricted access area, and are off limits to hunting. Accessing the refuge by boat or hunting near the refuge shoreline is not permitted. Remember Marion Reservoir has ZEBRA MUSSELS. Make sure to Clean, Drain and Dry your equipment. Clean all visible vegetation and mud from decoys, bags, waders, etc. Drain water from decoy bags and boats. Allow equipment to Dry for a five day period before using it at another area, OR wash with high-pressure hot water. Many of the roads around the reservoir can get very greasy after rain, or melting snow, please use good judgement about which roads you try to travel on. |
This a collection of all the Southeast Waterfowl Reports.
1JOHN REDMOND - Last Updated: 1/26/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 8,500 mixed ducks, majority divers. 1,500 Dark Geese and 5,000 Light Geese |
| Water level | Current Level: 1041.3 Conservation Pool Level: 1041 |
| Hunting conditions |
Teal - Low Plains 09/12/2020 - 09/27/2020 Location: East of Hwy. U. S. 283 Area open: East of Hwy. U. S. 283 Daily bag limit: 6 Possession limit: 18 Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Stamp, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp
Duck Season - Youth/Veteran/Active Military (Low Plains Southeast) 11/07/2020 - 11/08/2020 Daily Bag Limit: Youth may hunt ducks, geese, coots, and mergansers with same daily bag limits as during the regular seasons. Possession Limit: same as regular seasons. Stamps/Permits Required: Resident youth hunters do not need any stamps or permits. Nonresident youth need a nonresident hunting license, a Kansas HIP Permit and State Waterfowl Permit.
Ducks - Low Plains Southeast Zone 11/14/2020 thru 01/03/2021 and 01/9/2021 thru 01/31/2021 Daily bag limit: 6 Six ducks is the daily bag limit, which may include no more than two canvasbacks, two redheads, one pintail, three wood ducks, three scaup and five mallards (only two of which may be hens). The daily bag may comprise six of any other duck, such as six teal, six gadwall, or six wigeon. Possession limit: Three times the daily limit.
Dark Geese Season (First Segment) 10/31/2020 - 11/01/2020 (Second Segment) 11/04/2020 -02/14/2021 Area open: Statewide Daily bag limit: 6 (including Brant) Possession limit: 18 Kansas HIP Stamp, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp Required
White-fronted Geese Season (First Segment) 10/31/2020- 01/03/2021 (Second Segment) 01/23/2021 – 02/14/2021 Location: Statewide Daily bag limit: 2 Possession limit: 6 Kansas HIP Stamp, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp Required
Light Geese Season (First Segment) 10/31/2020- 11/01/2020 (Second Segment) 11/04/2020- 02/14/2021 Location: Statewide Daily bag limit: 50 Possession limit: Unlimited Kansas HIP Stamp, State Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp Required
Light Geese Conservation Order NOTE - During this period, there will be no bag or possession limit on light geese. In addition, participants will be allowed to use unplugged shotguns and electronic calls and take light geese from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset during the period of the conservation order. 02/15/2021- 04/30/2021 Location: Statewide Possession Limit: Unlimited Stamps Required: Kansas HIP Stamp, State, Waterfowl Stamp, Federal Waterfowl Stamp John Redmond and Otter Creek Wildlife Area Fall 2020 Conditions- There was no spring flooding issues this year, and vegetation around reservoir looks superb. I expect excellent habitat conditions this year for waterfowl. Otter Creek Marshes, located below John Redmond Dam- excellent vegetation, but no water. Water control structures are closed and ready to hold water, but we have not been able to catch any substantial precipitation events as of yet. Will keep page updated if conditions change. Edges starting to thinly ice, creeks starting to ice up, boat ramps still accessible and open, but going to be temperature dependent. Thin ice, thicker on on south end of open water. The Sedimentation Basins located on west side, below dam, are not open for hunting, and are privately owned and operated. |
| Expected hunting success | Good |
| Comments | For information on Flint Hills National Wildlife Area and the marshes on the upper end of the lake please contact FHNWR @ 620-392-5553. |
ELK CITY RESERVOIR/WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 2/16/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Several thousand ducks have been seen on and around the reservoir this week. Ice has concentrated ducks and geese in open water areas. 20-30 thousand snow geese on the reservoir as well. The waterfowl numbers are expected to fluctuate with migration, hunting pressure, and changing habitat conditions. |
| Water level | Most of the marshes are full or near full. For current Reservoir levels visit http://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/ELKC.lakepage.html |
| Hunting conditions | There is a lot of sesbania around the lake this year. It will provide some cover but please try not to transport the plants or seeds away from the reservoir because it is a non-native, invasive species that we spend a lot of time trying to control in the wetlands. Wetland food production was great this year. |
| Expected hunting success | Fair. REGULAR DUCK SEASON IS NOV. 14-JAN. 3 AND JAN. 9-31 |
| Comments | For updated waterfowl numbers and weather conditions call (620) 331-6820. Individuals utilizing the wildlife area need to be aware of the refuge boundaries. Maps can be obtained at the Fisheries & Wildlife office (below the dam) or at the State Park (on the lake side). Japanese Millet was planted around the area wetlands with good results, and there was a very good natural response of wild millet (barnyard grass) and smartweed in most wetlands. Overall, there should be plenty of food to attract waterfowl. |
FALL RIVER RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 1/8/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 01/08/21 Waterfowl numbers remain low. There are always several small groups of divers on watersheds and pasture ponds as well as the reservoir. Because of the lack of flooded vegetation birds are not lingering in the area. There have been a few large groups of ducks on agricultural fields, however, most of the ducks have been on private fields and not on the wildlife area. A few large groups of divers (mostly mergansers) have been observed on the river recently. Goose numbers have been fair with birds focusing on cut corn fields with wheat drilled in. |
| Water level | Water levels have risen slightly with recent rains, but still fall short of flooding vegetation along shore lines. |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | Hunters can expect the see waterfowl and perhaps do some shooting, however, a limit would be hard to come by. |
| Comments | Waterfowl reports will be updated on a bi-weekly basis during the fall and winter waterfowl seasons. Updates will be made when significant changes in waterfowl numbers are observed. For information pertaining to the Fall River Wildlife Area call 620-583-6783. |
MARAIS DES CYGNES - Last Updated: 2/10/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 99% Frozen. Very few geese using the area. |
| Water levels | Good water can be found in all major units. Smaller units have been pumped. Boat ramp at A-East has been deepened. Unit G is more shallow now than it has been in recent years. Unless a significant rain event occurs, Unit E and Unit H will have little to no water. "Flooded timber" units will not have water this year. |
| Hunting/ Habitat conditions | Very good moist-soil vegetation in major wetlands, some Japanese millet planted in A North, very little corn in small wetlands. Approximately 100 acres of wheat planted across the area. Levee renovation project was completed on portions of Unit E. |
| Hunting success | |
| Comments | Project Update: The willows have been harvested for the stabilization project at the river pump station where the bank is being repaired. Construction continues. Please drive slowly when going through the construction zone. NOTE: Legal shooting hours are 1/2-hour before sunrise to SUNSET. Late shooters (shooting after sunset) will be prosecuted. All hunters must check-in daily using iSportsman electronic check-in from a PC, smartphone, or by phone before hunting and check out at the end of the hunt regardless of harvest. We now have a zero tolerance policy on failure to comply with iSportsman and check station requirements. Please remember to fill out the check-out report with accurate information. THIS INFORMATION IS VERY IMPORTANT TO THE CURRENT AND FUTURE MANAGEMENT OF THE AREA. FILL OUT ONLY YOUR INDIVIDUAL HARVEST EFFORTS, i.e., NOT A GROUP HARVEST TOTAL. Go to: Outboard motors are restricted on this wildlife area and are allowed in Unit G and in the boat lane only in Unit A-East. Outboards are not allowed in any other wetland units. Electric trolling motors are unrestricted. Boats must be operated at wakeless speed. Boats must have sufficient PFDs for occupants. Go to MDCWA and click the "News" icon near the top for more information on general waterfowl habitat. Waterfowl report is updated only if there are significant changes in waterfowl numbers or hunting conditions. |
MELVERN LAKE/WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 1/6/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | Waterfowl counts given on this report are based on what was observed on the day the report is updated. Waterfowl numbers vary greatly from day to day and weather conditions and hunting pressure will affect the number of waterfowl on the area. Mallard Migration Rank = 1 (0 = no mallards and 10 = peak migration) 01/04/2021 ( 10:00 a.m. )--- ALL WETLAND UNITS ARE FULL 3 Duck Marsh- 10 mallards Willow Marsh- Iced over Sundance Marsh- No birds observed Lowman's Cove- none Shoveler Slough- No birds LOCATION:South parking lot is at the intersection of W 317th St. & S Davis Rd. (NOTE: Motorized boats are prohibited) Refuge- Snow geese |
| Water level | Lake level = 1034.67; Conservation pool = 1036.00; Target goal for the lake is 1034.00. 0% Ice cover on Melvern Lake. |
| Hunting conditions | Moist soil vegetation had great production in all units providing ample amounts of natural food for waterfowl once flooded. Warm weather has slowed migration and waterfowl numbers are low. |
| Expected hunting success | Poor - Fair |
| Comments | All hunters utilizing Melvern Wildlife Area are required to obtain a free daily hunt permit through the new electronic permit system. Hunters can register now to begin using the electronic system at https://kdwpt.isportsman.net/ For more information (click here). Waterfowl hunters utilizing the main lake are only required to obtain a permit when hunting west of Hoch Road. Please remember to fill out the permit with accurate information. THIS INFORMATION IS VERY IMPORTANT TO THE CURRENT AND FUTURE MANAGEMENT OF THE AREA. FILL OUT ONLY YOUR INDIVIDUAL HARVEST EFFORTS, i.e., NOT A GROUP HARVEST TOTAL. The Refuge Area is CLOSED October 1st through January 15th. |
NEOSHO WILDLIFE AREA - Last Updated: 2/24/2021 Print
TORONTO RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 1/8/2021 Print
| Waterfowl numbers | 01/08/21 Ducks remain present in small numbers. Most groups of birds observed have been limited to roughly one to two dozen birds. Most of the birds observed have been divers. Most pasture ponds and water sheds are holding small groups of birds. If conditions are right for ponds to ice up, expect birds to concentrate on the reservoir. |
| Water level | Water levels have risen slightly, however, water is still short of flooding any vegetation. Area marshes remain dry. |
| Hunting conditions | |
| Expected hunting success | With mostly divers being observed hunters could have some success on the reservoir, however, a limit of birds may be hard to come by. |
| Comments | Waterfowl reports will be posted on a bi-weekly basis throughout the fall and winter waterfowl seasons. Updates will be made when a significant change in bird numbers is observed. For information pertaining to the Toronto Wildlife Area call 620-583-6783. |
Migratory Birds are birds protected by federal law as a result of treaties signed with other countries. Protected migratory birds are listed in Title 50 Code of Federal Regulations, Section. 10.13. This list includes almost all birds found in the United States with the exception of the house sparrow, feral pigeon (commonly called rock dove), European starling, Eurasian collared-dove, mute swan, and upland game birds (which are protected by state laws).
All migratory birds are protected. However, a subset of migratory birds classified as migratory game birds and may be hunted in accordance with State and Federal regulations. The list of migratory game birds includes species of ducks, geese (including brant), swans, doves and pigeons, cranes, rails, coots, gallinules and moorhens, woodcock and snipe, if there is an open season.
Daily bag limit means the maximum number of migratory game birds of a single species or combination (aggregate) of species permitted to be taken by one person in any one day during the open season in any one specified geographic area for which a daily bag limit is prescribed.
Aggregate daily bag limit means the maximum number of migratory game birds permitted to be taken by one person in any one day during the open season when such person hunts in more than one specified geographic area and/or for more than one species for which a combined daily bag limit is prescribed. The aggregate daily bag limit is equal to, but shall not exceed, the largest daily bag limit prescribed for any one species or for any one specified geographic area in which taking occurs.
Possession limit means the maximum number of migratory game birds of a single species or a combination of species permitted to be possessed by any one person when lawfully taken in the United States in any one specified geographic area for which a possession limit is prescribed.
Aggregate possession limit means the maximum number of migratory game birds of a single species or combination of species taken in the United States permitted to be possessed by any one person when taking and possession occurs in more than one specified geographic area for which a possession limit is prescribed. The aggregate possession limit is equal to, but shall not exceed, the largest possession limit prescribed for any one of the species or specified geographic areas in which taking and possession occurs.
Personal abode means one’s principal or ordinary home or dwelling place, as distinguished from one’s temporary or transient place of abode or dwelling such as a hunting club, or any club house, cabin, tent or trailer house used as a hunting club, or any hotel, motel or rooming house used during a hunting, pleasure or business trip.
Migratory bird preservation facility means:
(1) Any person who, at their residence or place of business and for hire or other consideration; or
(2) Any taxidermist, cold-storage facility or locker plant which, for hire or other consideration; or
(3) Any hunting club which, in the normal course of operations; receives, possesses, or has in custody any migratory game birds belonging to another person for purposes of picking, cleaning, freezing, processing, storage or shipment.
Normal agricultural planting, harvesting, or post-harvest manipulation means a planting or harvesting undertaken for the purpose of producing and gathering a crop, or manipulation after such harvest and removal of grain, that is conducted in accordance with official recommendations of State Extension Specialists of the Cooperative Extension Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Normal agricultural operation means a normal agricultural planting, harvesting, post-harvest manipulation, or agricultural practice that is conducted in accordance with official recommendations of State Extension Specialists of the Cooperative Extension Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Normal soil stabilization practice means a planting for agricultural soil erosion control or post-mining land reclamation conducted in accordance with official recommendations of State Extension Specialists of the Cooperative Extension Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture for agricultural soil erosion control.
Baited area means any area on which salt, grain, or other feed has been placed, exposed, deposited, distributed, or scattered, if that salt, grain, or other feed could serve as a lure or attraction for migratory game birds to, on, or over areas where hunters are attempting to take them. Any such area will remain a baited area for ten days following the complete removal of all such salt, grain, or other feed.
Baiting means the direct or indirect placing, exposing, depositing, distributing, or scattering of salt, grain, or other feed that could serve as a lure or attraction for migratory game birds to, on, or over any areas where hunters are attempting to take them.
Manipulation means the alteration of natural vegetation or agricultural crops by activities that include but are not limited to mowing, shredding, discing, rolling, chopping, trampling, flattening, burning, or herbicide treatments. The term manipulation does not include the distributing or scattering of grain, seed, or other feed after removal from or storage on the field where grown.
Natural vegetation means any non-agricultural, native, or naturalized plant species that grows at a site in response to planting or from existing seeds or other propagules. The term natural vegetation does not include planted millet. However, planted millet that grows on its own in subsequent years after the year of planting is considered natural vegetation.
No persons shall take migratory game birds:
- With a trap, snare, net, rifle, pistol, swivel gun, shotgun larger than 10 gauge, punt gun, battery gun, machinegun, fish hook, poison, drug, explosive, or stupefying substance;
With a shotgun of any description capable of holding more than three shells, unless it is plugged with a one-piece filler, incapable of removal without disassembling the gun, so its total capacity does not exceed three shells. This restriction does not apply during dates States haves selected under the Conservation Order for light geese (i.e. greater and lesser snow and Ross’s geese) or those selected for the control of resident Canada geese.
- From or by means, aid, or use of a sinkbox or any other type of low floating device, having a depression affording the hunter a means of concealment beneath the surface of the water;
- From or by means, aid, or use of any motor vehicle, motor-driven land conveyance, or aircraft of any kind, except that paraplegics and persons missing one or both legs may take from any stationary motor vehicle or stationary motor-driven land conveyance;
- From or by means of any motorboat or other craft having a motor attached, or any sailboat, unless the motor has been completely shut off and/or the sails furled, and its progress there from has ceased;
- By the use or aid of live birds as decoys; although not limited to, it shall be a violation of this paragraph for any person to take migratory waterfowl on an area where tame or captive live ducks or geese are present unless such birds are and have been for a period of 10 consecutive days prior to such taking, confined within an enclosure which substantially reduces the audibility of their calls and totally conceals such birds from the sight of wild migratory waterfowl;
By the use or aid of recorded or electrically amplified bird calls or sounds, or recorded or electrically amplified imitations of bird calls or sounds. This restriction does not apply during dates States haves selected under the Conservation Order for light geese (i.e. greater and lesser snow and Ross’s geese) or those selected for the control of resident Canada geese.
- By means or aid of any motor driven land, water, or air conveyance, or any sailboat used for the purpose of or resulting in the concentrating, driving, rallying, or stirring up of any migratory bird;
- By the aid of baiting, or on or over any baited area, where a person knows or reasonably should know that the area is or has been baited.
It is legal to take migratory game birds including waterfowl, coots, and cranes, on or over the following lands or areas that are not otherwise baited areas:
- Standing crops or flooded standing crops (including aquatics);
- Standing, flooded, or manipulated natural vegetation; flooded harvested croplands; or lands or areas where seeds or grains have been scattered solely as the result of a normal agricultural planting, harvesting, post-harvest manipulation or normal soil stabilization practice;
- From a blind or other place of concealment camouflaged with natural vegetation;
- From a blind or other place of concealment camouflaged with vegetation from agricultural crops, as long as such camouflaging does not result in the exposing, depositing, distributing or scattering of grain or other feed; or
- Standing or flooded standing agricultural crops where grain is inadvertently scattered solely as a result of a hunter entering or exiting a hunting area, placing decoys, or retrieving downed birds.
It is legal to take migratory game birds, except waterfowl, coots and cranes, on or over lands or areas that are not otherwise baited areas, and where grain or other feed has been distributed or scattered solely as the result of manipulation of an agricultural crop or other feed on the land where grown, or solely as the result of a normal agricultural operation.
Wanton waste of migratory game birds No person shall kill or cripple any migratory game bird without making a reasonable effort to retrieve the bird, and retain it in his actual custody, at the place where taken or between that place and either (a) his automobile or principal means of land transportation; or (b) his personal abode or temporary or transient place of lodging; or (c) a migratory bird preservation facility; or (d) a post office; or (e) a common carrier facility.
Non-toxic Shot No person may take ducks, geese (including brant), or coots while possessing shot (either in shotshells or as loose shot for muzzleloading) other than approved non-toxic shot. For a list of approved non-toxic shot, see (http://fws.gov/migratorybirds/issues/nontoxic.htm)
Opening Day of a Season No person on the opening day of the season shall possess any freshly killed migratory game birds in excess of the daily bag limit, or aggregate daily bag limit, whichever applies.
Field Possession Limit No person shall possess, have in custody, or transport more than the daily bag limit or aggregate daily bag limit, whichever applies, of migratory game birds, tagged or not tagged, at or between the place where taken and either (a) his automobile or principal means of land transportation; or (b) his personal abode or temporary or transient place of lodging; or (c) a migratory bird preservation facility; or (d) a post office; or (e) a common carrier facility.
Tagging requirement No person shall put or leave any migratory game birds at any place (other than at his personal abode), or in the custody of another person for picking, cleaning, processing, shipping, transportation, or storage (including temporary storage), or for the purpose of having taxidermy services performed, unless such birds have a tag attached, signed by the hunter, stating his address, the total number and species of birds, and the date such birds were killed. Migratory game birds being transported in any vehicle as the personal baggage of the possessor shall not be considered as being in storage or temporary storage.
Custody of birds of another No person shall receive or have in custody any migratory game birds belonging to another person unless such birds are properly tagged.
Termination of possession Subject to all other requirements of this part, the possession of birds taken by any hunter shall be deemed to have ceased when such birds have been delivered by him to another person as a gift; or have been delivered by him to a post office, a common carrier, or a migratory bird preservation facility and consigned for transport by the Postal Service or a common carrier to some person other than the hunter.
Gift of migratory game birds No person may receive, possess, or give to another, any freshly killed migratory game birds as a gift, except at the personal abodes of the donor or donee, unless such birds have a tag attached, signed by the hunter who took the birds, stating such hunter's address, the total number and species of birds and the date such birds were taken.
Transportation of birds of another No person shall transport migratory game birds belonging to another person unless such birds are properly tagged.
Species identification requirement No person shall transport within the United States any migratory game birds, except doves and band-tailed pigeons, unless the head or one fully feathered wing remains attached to each such bird at all times while being transported from the place where taken until they have arrived at the personal abode of the possessor or a migratory bird preservation facility.
Marking package or container No person shall transport by the Postal Service or a common carrier migratory game birds unless the package or container in which such birds are transported has the name and address of the shipper and the consignee and an accurate statement of the numbers of each species of birds therein contained clearly and conspicuously marked on the outside thereof.
Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp The law requires that each waterfowl hunter 16 years of age and older must carry on his person a Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (Federal Duck Stamp) that is validated by the hunter signing the stamp in ink across the face of the stamp.
More restrictive regulations may apply to National Wildlife Refuges opened to public hunting. For additional information on refuge specific regulations see http://www.fws.gov/refuges/
This migratory bird information is being provided as a service to hunters. It has been prepared as a guide only and is not a complete list of regulations. For more detailed legal information, contact the KDWPT Law Enforcement Division, or complete regulations may also be viewed and printed on the KDWPT website.
Kansas Duck Hunting Zones
High Plains Unit: That portion of Kansas west of federal highway US-283
Low Plains Early Zone: That part of Kansas bounded by a line from the federal highway US-283 and state highway US-96 junction, then east on federal highway US-96 to its junction with federal highway US-183, then north on federal highway US-183 to its junction with federal highway US-24, then east on federal highway US-24 to its junction with federal highway US-281, then north on federal highway US-281 to its junction with federal highway US-36, then east on federal highway US-36 to its junction with state highway K-199, then south on state highway K-199 to its junction with Republic County 30th Road, then south on Republic County 30th Road to its junction with state highway K-148, then east on state highway K-148 to its junction with Republic County 50th Road, then south on Republic County 50th Road to its junction with Cloud County 40th Road, then south on Cloud County 40th Road to its junction with state highway K-9, then west on state highway K-9 to its junction with federal highway US-24, then west on federal highway US-24 to its junction with federal highway US-181, then south on federal highway US-181 to its junction with state highway K-18, then west on state highway K-18 to its junction with federal highway US-281, then south on federal highway US-281 to its junction with state highway K-4, then east on state highway K-4 to its junction with interstate highway I-135, then south on interstate highway I–135 to its junction with state highway K-61, then southwest on state highway K-61 to its junction with McPherson County 14th Avenue, then south on McPherson County 14th Avenue to its junction with McPherson County Arapaho Rd, then west on McPherson County Arapaho Rd to its junction with state highway K-61, then southwest on state highway K-61 to its junction with state highway K-96, then northwest on state highway K-96 to its junction with federal highway US-56, then southwest on federal highway US-56 to its junction with state highway K-19, then east on state highway K-19 to its junction with federal highway US-281, then south on federal highway US-281 to its junction with federal highway US-54, then west on federal highway US-54 to its junction with federal highway US-183, then north on federal highway US-183 to its junction with federal highway US-56, then southwest on federal highway US-56 to its junction with North Main Street in Spearville, Kansas, then south on North Main Street to Davis Street in Spearville, Kansas, then east on Davis Street to Ford County Road 126 (South Stafford Street in Spearville, Kansas), then south on Ford County Road 126 to Garnett Road, then east on Garnett Road to Ford County Road 126, then south on Ford County Road 126 to Ford Spearville Road, then west on Ford Spearville Road to its junction with federal highway US-400, then northwest on federal highway US-400 to its junction with federal highway US-283, and then north on federal highway US-283 to its junction with federal highway US-96.
Low Plains Late Zone: That part of Kansas bounded by a line from the federal highway US-283 and federal highway US-96 junction, then north on federal highway US-283 to the Kansas-Nebraska state line, then east along the Kansas-Nebraska state line to its junction with the Kansas-Missouri state line, then southeast along the Kansas-Missouri state line to its junction with state highway K-68, then west on state highway K-68 to its junction with interstate highway I-35, then southwest on interstate highway I-35 to its junction with Butler County NE 150th Street, then west on Butler County NE 150th Street to its junction with federal highway US-77, then south on federal highway US-77 to its junction with the Kansas-Oklahoma state line, then west along the Kansas-Oklahoma state line to its junction with federal highway US-283, then north on federal highway US-283 to its junction with federal highway US-400, then east on federal highway US-400 to its junction with Ford Spearville Road, then east on Ford Spearville Road to Ford County Road 126, then north on Ford County Road 126 to Garnett Road, then west on Garnett Road to Ford County Road 126, then north on Ford County Road 126 (South Stafford Street in Spearville, Kansas) to Davis Street in Spearville, Kansas, then west on Davis Street to North Main Street in Spearville, Kansas, then north on North Main Street to its junction with federal highway US-56, then east on federal highway US-56 to its junction with federal highway US-183, then south on federal highway US-183 to its junction with federal highway US-54, then east on federal highway US-54 to its junction with federal highway US-281, then north on federal highway US-281 to its junction with state highway K-19, then west on state highway K-19 to its junction with federal highway US-56, then east on federal highway US-56 to its junction with state highway K-96, then southeast on state highway K-96 to its junction with state highway K-61, then northeast on state highway K-61 to its junction with McPherson County Arapaho Road, then east on McPherson County Arapaho Road to its junction with McPherson County 14th Avenue, then north on McPherson County 14th Avenue to its junction with state highway K-61, then east on state highway K-61 to its junction with interstate highway I-135, then north on interstate highway I-135 to its junction with state highway K-4, then west on state highway K-4 to its junction with federal highway US-281, then north on federal highway US-281 to its junction with state highway K-18, then east on state highway K-18 to its junction with federal highway US-181, then north on federal highway US-181 to its junction with federal highway US-24, then east on federal highway US-24 to its junction with state highway K-9, then east on state highway K-9 to its junction with Cloud County 40th Road, then north on Cloud County 40th Road to its junction with Republic County 50th Road, then north on Republic County 50th Road to its junction with state highway K-148, then west on state highway K-148 to its junction with Republic County 30th Road, then north on Republic County 30th Road to its junction with state highway K-199, then north on state highway K-199 to its junction with federal highway US-36, then west on federal highway US-36 to its junction with federal highway US-281, then south on federal highway US-281 to its junction with federal highway US-24, then west on federal highway US-24 to its junction with federal highway US-183, then south on federal highway US-183 to its junction with federal highway US-96, and then west on federal highway US-96 to its junction with federal highway US-283.
Low Plains Southeast Zone: That part of Kansas bounded by a line from the Kansas-Missouri state line west on state highway K-68 to its junction with interstate highway I-35, then southwest on interstate highway I-35 to its junction with Butler County NE 150th Street, then west on Butler County NE 150th Street to its junction with federal highway US-77, then south on federal highway US-77 to the Kansas-Oklahoma State line, then east along the Kansas–Oklahoma state line to its junction with the Kansas-Missouri state line, and then north along the Kansas-Missouri state line to its junction with state highway K-68.
All waterfowl hunters 16 and older must have a Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (Federal Waterfowl Stamp), and all hunters who are required to obtain a hunting license must also have a Kansas State Waterfowl Stamp and a Kansas Harvest Information Program (HIP) stamp before hunting ducks, geese, or mergansers. (Those not required to have a Kansas hunting license include people hunting their own land, and residents 15 and younger)
Annual Hunting License - All resident hunters age 16 through 74 must have a resident hunting license unless exempt by Kansas Law. Nonresident hunters, regardless of age, must have a nonresident hunting license. Annual hunting licenses can be purchased online by clicking here or through all licensed agents, or Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism offices.
Waterfowl Stamps and Licence - All Waterfowl stamps and licenses can be bought at any licensed Agent , Pratt Operations Office , or online, EXCEPT for the Federal Waterfowl Stamp which is bought at a US Post Office, KDWPT Regional and Park Offices, and select license agents. All Waterfowl stamps are good through season.
- Kansas HIP Stamp: $2.50
- State Waterfowl Stamp: $10
- Federal Waterfowl Stamp: $26.50 - Purchased at any KDWPT office or at any US Post Office.
State stamps are available at any licensed agent, online , Pratt Operations Office or Regional office. Federal stamps are available at a US Post Office, Pratt Operations Office or Regional office . Federal stamps must be signed across the face of the stamp.
Waterfowl stamps are not required to hunt Coot, Dove, Rail, Snipe, Woodcock, or Sandhill Crane. HIP is required.
If hunting Sandhill Crane, in addition to a hunting license ( if required), a federal sandhill crane hunting permit issued through and validated by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is required to hunt cranes. Crane permits obtained in other states are not valid in Kansas. The validated permit ($7.50 validation fee) is available at any licensed agent , online , Pratt Operations Office , or Regional office .
All Kansas sandhill crane hunters must pass the "Test for Sandhill Crane Hunters" before obtaining a sandhill crane hunting permit.
"Online Test for Sandhill Crane Hunters." Click this link to take an online test that provides information about identifying whooping cranes, sandhill cranes, and look-alike species, as well as the hunter’s ability to choose safe shots. The test is both entertaining and informative and only takes a few minutes.
Avian influenza, or “bird flu” as it is commonly called, is a naturally-occurring disease in wild waterfowl caused by various strains of avian-type influenza. In the past, the disease in wild birds has been of little concern, because it usually causes either mild or no clinical signs in them. In domestic poultry flocks, however, some strains of avian influenza are deadly and are classified as “highly pathogenic.”
Some species of wild birds, such as mallards, can carry the highly pathogenic strains of influenza without becoming ill; whereas other species, such as swans, are sensitive to the virus and are more likely to sicken and die.
Kansas Dept. of Agriculture Avian Influenza Information
Kansas Dept. of Agriculture News Releases
Kansas Dept. of Health and Environment Avian Influenza Information
Centers for Disease Control Information on Avian Influenza
Mallards - photo Mike Blair
How is avian influenza detected in wild birds?
Various methods are used to detect avian influenza in wild birds. One method is to take samples from live or hunter-killed birds. The sampling procedure involves quick and simple swabs of the throat and cloaca (combine
Another method used to detect avian influenza in wild birds is through surveillance of waterfowl areas for suspicious deaths in sensitive species. When mortalities occur that are not due to commonon diseases, injury, or natural death, the appropriate samples are taken and submitted for laboratory testing. d genital/anal opening) which do not harm the live bird nor do they affect the edibility of the meat. After sampling, the live bird is returned to the wild, whereas bagged birds can be taken home and enjoyed for dinner. (The sampling procedure is not a test of food safety.) The swabs are then sent to a laboratory for diagnostic testing.
Should I be afraid of avian influenza?
The chances of a hunter encountering the virus are extremely low. Furthermore, in its current form, the virus is not easily contracted by humans.
Although the risk of encountering avian influenza is very low, should I be cautious?
Hunters should always take reasonable routine precautions when handling wild game. The following information provided by the USGS will also help protect you from other transmissible diseases such as tularemia.
How to kill the virus:
Thoroughly washing hands with soap and water (or with alcohol-based hand products if the hands are not visibly soiled) is a very effective method for inactivating influenza viruses. These viruses are also inactivated with many common disinfectants such as detergents, 10% household bleach, alcohol or other commercial disinfectants. The virus is more difficult to inactivate in organic material such as feces or soil.
Hunters should follow routine precautions when handling game:
- Do not handle or eat sick game.
- Wear rubber or disposable latex gloves while handling and cleaning game, wash hands as described above, and thoroughly clean knives, equipment and surfaces that come in contact with game.
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling animals.
- All game should be thoroughly cooked (well done or 160° F).
The general public should observe wildlife, including wild birds, from a distance. This protects you from possible exposure to pathogens and minimizes disturbance to the animal.
- Avoid touching wildlife. If there is contact with wildlife do not rub eyes, eat, drink, or smoke before washing hands with soap and water as described above.
- Do not pick up diseased or dead wildlife. Contact your state, tribal or federal natural resource agency if a sick or dead animal is found.
CLICK HERE for US Fish & Wildlife Service annual reports on waterfowl, crane, dove and other migratory game bird populations, harvest and hunter activity