Duck hunting will not be banned in Tasmania as has been the case in other states, Primary Industries Minister Guy Barnett says.
Victoria recently announced its duck hunting season would be shortened this year due to concerns over a decrease of waterbird numbers.
Its season will run for just 20 days this year and hunters will be limited to taking a maximum of two birds a day.
IN OTHER NEWS:
New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia do not allow duck hunting.
RSPCA Tasmania has called for Tasmania to follow the lead of these states and outlaw the activity.
Mr Barnett said duck hunting in Tasmania was an important recreational activity in the state which was strictly regulated and monitored.
"The numbers of ducks are monitored on a yearly basis and there is no decline in the long-term population of ducks in Tasmania," he said.
In a 13-week killing spree, 50,000 wild ducks were killed.
- Greens environment spokeswoman Rosalie Woodruff
Greens environment spokeswoman Rosalie Woodruff said duck hunting was a cruel and unjustifiable activity that people have called to cease for decades.
"In a 13-week killing spree, 50,000 wild ducks were killed [two seasons ago]," she said.
Dr Woodruff said many ducks were maimed or left injured in the name of sport each year.
A draft minute from DPIPWE produced last year recommended the government reduce the length of the hunting season.
Duck hunting season in Tasmania is expected to commence on March 6 and run until June 6.
What do you think? Send us a letter to the editor:
Political reporter for Australian Community Media, based in Hobart.
Political reporter for Australian Community Media, based in Hobart.
