Geese cause pasture problems

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 10, Issue 441, 23 June 1992, Page 7

Geese cause pasture problems

bymatthewmcDOUGALL, MANAGER, TARANAKI FISH AND GAME COUNCIL It's wary, it's cunning, it's the number one game bird in the USA, but New Zealand hunters basi-

cally ignore it. The challenge of canada goose hunting is one few New Zealand hunters accept. The canada goose was introduced from North America to the Canter-

bury area in 1905. Since then it has thrived. In fact it has been so prolific that in many areas it is causing consternation for many land owners. The birds congregate in large numbers

decimating and fouling crops and pasture. the Taranaki Fish and Game Region is no exception. Populations in the Waimarino ?nd New Plymouth areas are causing concern to local farmers. Management regimes that have been adopted elsewhere in the country involve establishing a limit to the size of the population. The limit is set by identifying a happy medium where there are plenty of birds for the sportsman and yet numbers will not cause excessive damage to crops and pasture. Our job, as managers, is to monitor the populations, harvest and make an effort to ensure hunting is maintaining the populations at these limits. In the South Island hunters have not been able to maintain the populations at these established limits, consequently Fish and Game Staff have had the onerous task of culling excessive birds. Currently there is debate on who

should pick up the tab for these operations, Fish and Game, the land owner or the Department of Conservation. Canada goose hunting fully tests the combina-

tion of skill and patience. Hunters who familiarise themselves with the bird's habits, ensure they are well camouflaged, know how to call properly and use decoys effectively, can be in for some very ex-

citing hunting. Canadas are currently restricted to two birds in Areas 'A' (Waimarino area) and 'C' (New Plymouth area). Refer to your licence or contact the Taranaki Fish and Game office for further details.