The federal government is reviewing a proposal to introduce a new hunting season for tundra swans in the Prairie provinces. This potential change to Canada’s migratory bird regulations would allow hunting of tundra swans in Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan, where they are currently protected.
Concerns have been raised that this new hunting season could pose a risk to trumpeter swans, a similar-looking and sensitive species that cannot be hunted in North America. Due to the similarities in appearance between tundra and trumpeter swans, there is a potential for accidental shootings of the wrong species.
Wildlife biologist David Duncan, a retired biologist and hunter, emphasized the challenges in distinguishing between the two swan species, especially when they are in flight. He highlighted the risk of mistakenly shooting trumpeter swans due to their overlapping habitats and visual similarities.
While tundra and trumpeter swans are the only native swan species in Canada, the mute swan, found in the country, is considered invasive. Trumpeter swans, known for their large size and weight, have seen population increases across North America in recent decades.
The proposal for a tundra swan hunting season includes measures to protect trumpeter swans, such as educating hunters on species identification and requiring prompt reporting of harvested swans. The allocation of hunting permits would be distributed among Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
The federal government aims to provide new hunting opportunities for enthusiasts while supporting local businesses. The proposal, currently in the consultation phase, seeks public feedback before any final decisions are made. Stakeholders have expressed interest in a tundra swan hunt, leading to the consideration of this hunting season.
In addition to the tundra swan proposal, the migratory bird hunting changes could include opening a mourning dove hunting season in the Prairie provinces and expanding the sandhill crane hunt in Alberta. The implementation of any new hunting seasons, including the tundra swan hunt, is not expected before 2028.
