BASC predict a mixed start to the wildfowling season as bird numbers are lower than would normally be expected for this time of year.
The UK’s largest shooting organisation has contacted wildfowling groups in the run up to the start of the season on September 1, but reports suggest it unlikely prospects will improve much before the autumn migration.
Canada and greylag geese have been seen at inland sites and on coastal marshes and estuaries across the UK. Mallard are present in reasonable numbers, while teal have been appearing in high numbers in the east of England in the last week. Small numbers of pink footed geese are present in north Scotland at the moment, but by late August have yet to be identified in north England.
BASC wildfowling officer Mark Greenhough said: “I am not expecting a spectacular start to the season, as bird numbers seem to be a little down on what we may normally expect to see.
“I think it will be a case of wait and see what the autumn migration brings our way in terms of bird numbers and how the weather affects their feeding once they arrive. I would like to take the opportunity to wish everyone a good season.”
John Dryden, chair of BASC’s Wildfowling Liaison Committee, said: “It is always an exciting time of the year for wildfowlers. We never quite know what the season will bring, but that uncertainty is part of the attraction. We would like to wish everyone a good season and hope they stay safe.”
BASC’s Wildfowling Permit Scheme provides shooting opportunities for those members wishing to experience wildfowling in different parts of the country or even to get their first taste of the sport.
BASC-affiliated wildfowling clubs and other organisations provide scheme details to BASC, who produce the Wildfowling Permit Scheme Booklet. This booklet is designed for both the novice and experienced wildfowler and includes details of where you can get wildfowling permits in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Permits are offered by many BASC wildfowling clubs, various countryside organizations and local authorities.
For more information on the scheme: http://bit.ly/2bQWtzl