Despite Climate Challenges California Waterfowl Continue to Thrive

Water Fowl populations are thriving in California. The California Department of Fish and Game have provided figures that point to an increase in the breeding population of waterfowl in northeastern portions of California. Steps to improve the habitats of California’s waterfowl must be taken to ensure that these populations continue to grow.

BY LARRY VENUS

Reports show waterfowl populations were high in the Suisun Marsh and Napa/Santa Rosa regions relative to previous breeding seasons.

A survey conducted by the California Department of Fish and Game shows that in the Northeastern portion of California, waterfowl populations are in a “state of recovery.”

The survey found:

● An increase in the total breeding population of ducks by 39% since 2017
● Gadwalls increased by 43% from last year and are 20% above the long-term average
● Cinnamon Teal increased 131% over 2017, and are 83% above average
● Canadian Geese were comparable to 2017 numbers, and are 27% above average
● Mallards increased 38% over 2017, but are 20% below long-term averages

With the cooperation of public and private landowners, the California Waterfowl Association, has its biologists perform restoration and improvements across thousands of acres of wetland each year.

Policy makers, farmers and wildlife conservationists need to continue collaborating to keep California’s waterfowl populations thriving. We must avoid complacency by continuing to protect our wetlands habitat in a way that will benefit the environment and our healthy waterfowl populations for years to come.

Read More at Sac Observer