NEW ZEALAND IS A LAND OF PLENTY FOR HUNTERS SEEKING FEATHERED TARGETS

Ibelieve the waterfowling in the Top End is probably the best and most reliable in the world. Part of my opinion though is formed due to the weather during the hunting season. In the USA the annual migration of geese and duck is caused by blizzard conditions forcing the birds south for the winter. The layers of clothing and structures required to survive this type of hunting are restrictive.

In New Zealand things are still cold, but the variety of birds available is out of this world. The NZ acclimatisation societies in the late 1800s have provided a bird-hunting utopia for today. The societies encouraged the introduction of non-native species in the hope they would acclimatise and adapt to their new home. This was at a time before the danger of introduced species was recognised.

The NZ game species list includes paradise shelduck, grey and NZ shoveler duck, black swan, Canada goose, pukeko (purple swamp hen), California, brown and bobwhite quail, ring-neck pheasant, chukar and red-legged partridge, along with feral homing pigeons.

The hunting seasons extend from February to late August, and you can now hunt Canada geese year-round.

Bag limits are different in most regions and range from one bird up to 50. There is no limit on Canada geese any longer.

Many Australian hunters who would normally travel across the Ditch are spending their hard-earned cash in Victoria and South Australia this year because conditions are so good in Australia.

But I do know a few of my mates who have left to enjoy the mallard season opening this weekend.

We don’t have as many species to hunt in the Top End, but you can do a lot with what we have. To find out more come along to NT Field and Game’s first Game Getter’s Banquet for members and friends, which will be held at the club next Saturday, May 13.

Come along and cook your favourite game meat delicacy, share with others and taste some of our best feathers and fur cook’s specialties. Recipes will be on hand that will broaden your scope for goose, duck, rabbit, venison, buffalo and quail.

The NT Field and Game range is open for practice from 9am until noon this morning, while weekly Friday night practice continues at Micket Creek Shooting Complex, Brandt Rd, Knuckey Lagoon. There are now two grounds with the token system in operation. The ranges will be open from 3pm on Fridays for those who plan ahead and pre-purchase ammo and tokens. The sales desk normally opens at 5pm. The next competition is the State of Origin 75T handicap event on May 21. Join Field and Game, www.fga.net.au Join SSAA, www.ssaa.org.au Join Australian Deer Association www.austdeer.asn.au Like NT Field and Game on Facebook. Email: ntfieldandgame@gmail.com Or fnflodge1@bigpond.com