Stop the slaughter of native ducks

The annual duck killing season will end this weekend as conservation and animal groups renew the call for a complete end to the killing. Against Animal Cruelty Tasmania (AACT) is leading the fight against recreational killing of wildlife in Tasmania.

“Duck shooting is just one form of abhorrent killing that is becoming illegal in Australia.” said Chris Simcox, spokesperson for AACT, “We bear witness to the killing every year and we are always appalled by the violence and suffering inflicted on innocent native waterbirds. Commmunity standards are demanding better treatment of native wildlife.”

The duck shooting season ends this weekend and rescuers will be visiting wetlands around Tasmania to save the lives of native ducks in the firing line. Rescuers will be watching wetlands to document the violence, to defend native waterbirds, and rescue injured native ducks abandoned by shooters.

“Duck shooting is senseless violence that causes needless suffering.” continued Mr Simcox, “Every open killing season in every part of the world is the same. We want duck shooting to end in Tasmania, just as we want it to stop wherever it is happening.”

• Duncan Mills, in Comments: As a long retired duck shooter, when I ask myself now I wonder why I ever did it, I am appalled at my joy once in the thrill of the hunt. I suggest that every young person be encouraged to ask themselves such questions; it will save many regrets later.