Biologists predict favorable season for waterfowl hunters

Austin—Abundant population numbers and above average rainfall during the summer months is a confidence booster for hunters preparing for the start of the new waterfowl hunting season.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) biologists indicated that teal, gadwall, wigeon, pintails, shovelers and redheads, key duck species for Texas hunters, are collectively plentiful and showed population increases this past summer.

“Texas hunters can anticipate another strong waterfowl season, though overall success will depend on local water availability and the timing of cold fronts,” said Kevin Kraai, TPWD waterfowl program leader, said. “Hunters who scout actively and find fresh shallow water will have the best opportunities this season.”

Hunters will also benefit from the new three-bird daily bag limit for pintails. A recent analysis confirmed that pintails are more numerous than the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) May Waterfowl Breeding Population and Habitat Survey detected. The new fall flight models also indicate the potential for a greater sustainable harvest compared to previous models.

On the weather front, the above average summer rainfall resulted in numerous reservoirs and stock ponds holding more water than last year. The increased water levels have expanded habit for migrating ducks, but hot and dry conditions during the month of September have begun to reduce shallow wetlands, playa lakes and other surface water. Hunters can expect birds to concentrate in areas where rainfall or active management has maintained fresh habitat.

On the coast, irrigation restrictions tied to low Highland Lake levels last year have resulted in fewer flooded rice fields this fall. Rice acreage across the state is slightly lower than last year and continues to trail the long-term averages. The upshot are habitats in coastal marshes and large reservoirs are in good condition. Most High Plains playas are also still holding water, but new rainfall is needed to prevent them from drying out.

The National Weather Service outlook calls for a developing La Niña this winter which usually means warmer and drier conditions are more likely. However, individual cold fronts will continue to drive waterfowl migrations into Texas and hunters should be prepared to take advantage of these weather events as they occur.

In addition to ducks, TPWD biologists denote that goose hunting prospects are strong due to a second year of improved productivity that could send more juvenile birds south. Those factors typically lead to better decoy response and higher harvest success for Texas hunters.

The special youth-only, veteran and active-duty military duck season, occurs Oct. 11-12 in the High Plains Mallard Management Unit. Closely followed by youth-only/active-duty military duck season Oct. 25-26 in the South Zone and Nov. 1-2 in the North Zone. Regular duck season in the High Plains Mallard Management Unit opens Oct. 18, Nov. 1 in the South Zone and Nov. 8 the North Zone.

SOURCE Texas Parks and Wildlife Department