With the start of the wild duck shooting season set to begin on Saturday, the Greens are raising questions about why 50,000 ducks should die while in other states the practice is banned.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Greens Environment spokeswoman Rosalie Woodruff said 50,000 native ducks will be shot and killed, with some expected to take days to die.
"Primary Industries Minister, Guy Barnett continues his obstinate refusal to listen to the evidence when it comes to native duck shooting," she said.
"Minister Barnett has done nothing to address clear issues raised by his Department, nor has he taken on board the advice of scientists and bird experts.Instead, he will allow this year's season to go ahead without restriction.
"When confronted with the cruelty of tens of thousands of birds being shot for sport - many of which will die a prolonged, painful death - he justified it as a 'traditional part of the Tasmanian way of life'."
Primary industries minster Guy Barnett said that surveys indicated that wild duck numbers are at acceptable levels, especially from a recent increase in rainfall.
"The 2021 hunting season for wild duck in Tasmania will open this Saturday, and I will take this opportunity to remind all licensed hunters that they are required to abide by the rules and regulations throughout the season.
"My department compliance officers will be monitoring activities and when necessary enforce those requirements."