Every year hundreds of Island hunters take to the fields, waterways and woodlands of Prince Edward Island as they participate in the annual hunting season. The dates for this year's hunting season have been set, with the season for migratory game birds including ducks and geese opening on October 4, while the season for woodcock and ruffed grouse opens September 27.
"For reasons of safety, a new regulation this year prohibits hunters from shooting ducks and geese from the highway right of way. This regulation builds on a long-standing prohibition against hunting waterfowl from the highway rights of way around provincial Wildlife Management Areas," said Mitch Murphy, Minister of Technology and Environment.
The Federal Government's regulation banning the use of lead shot for hunting ducks, geese and snipe in Prince Edward Island comes into full effect this year. Hunters may only use, or be in possession of, non-toxic shot that has been approved for use in Canada. With the new Canada-wide federal migratory bird hunting regulation for non-toxic shot, the Hillsborough non-toxic shot hunting zone regulations have been revoked. Conservation agencies will be enforcing the new regulation, with a priority in areas on or near wetlands or watercourses.
"Lead shot that has been discharged over water and remains in the wetland or watercourse is deadly to waterfowl when it is ingested by the birds as they feed," noted Mr. Murphy. "This has prompted the emphasis on enforcement in these areas."
Hunting licences and summaries are now available at the usual outlets across the province. For further information on hunter safety, open season dates, bag limits and possession limits, please contact the Fish and Wildlife Division at 902-368-4683 or your local conservation officer.