Online migration map aids hunters

About the current waterfowl hunting conditions, a hunter named B. Shaw reported Tuesday that there is "no migration" and "few local birds." Weather conditions are sunny, with early-morning temperatures ranging from 51 to 60 degrees. The day before, B. Julain reported similar hunting conditions.

From a small community farther to the east, R. Cox reported low numbers of birds, though there were signs the waterfowl migration was starting. Only in his location, temperatures were on average 10 degrees cooler than those where Shaw and Julain are located.

Except for the reported temperatures, these hunting reports might well be from hunters in Southern Nevada, where early-season success has given way to slow hunting conditions, low bird numbers and a sluggish migration from the north.

But they are not.

These reports, current as of Monday and Tuesday, are from hunters in Nampa, Idaho, and Douglas, Wyo., who are willing to share what they know with other hunters.

These hunters, along with thousands more across the country, are taking advantage of the Ducks Unlimited Migration Map, an online resource that lets hunters post up-to-date information on waterfowl migration status, weather conditions and hunting action for specific locations. These reports are available for anyone willing to spend some time clicking a mouse.

Naturally, "the migration map is only successful when hunters post detailed reports of the migration they are personally witnessing while they are in the field. Our numbers are showing that not only are visitors utilizing the map, but ... using the site's many aspects as tools within every flyway," said Anthony Jones, director of Internet services for DU.

In addition to migration status, hunters can post reports on hunting conditions. Three weeks into the season, Chad Yamane of Syracuse, Utah, reported that geese were using nearby cornfields after a passing storm left behind a dusting of snow. Yamane posted he was seeing "Lots of wigeon and gadwalls. Good numbers of teal, mallards and pintails."

While these examples are taken from surrounding states, most are from areas migrating waterfowl pass through on their way to Nevada, and it seems to me that knowing the location and status of migrating flocks could help with planning a hunt.

Unfortunately, I found only one report out of Nevada, dated Oct. 23. But the information provided definitely could have been of help to ardent waterfowlers. "There are more birds showing up now!" according to the report. "Cinnamon/green-winged teal, spoonies, wigeons and gadwall are the species around right now. Got a few mallards in now with only few big geese around! Snow geese are showing up."

Imagine what a powerful resource the migration map could be if hunters would be a little more willing to share with those beyond their immediate circle of friends. You can read current reports, or post one yourself at www.ducks.org. Don't worry; you won't have to give up your favorite hunting spot.

In Southern Nevada, the early-season success hunters enjoyed at the Key Pittman Wildlife Management Area has slowed. The Kirch WMA still has some birds but could use an influx of migrating birds. Keep an eye on weather patterns from northern Idaho to Salt Lake City.

Freelance writer Doug Nielsen is a conservation educator for the Nevada Department of Wildlife. His "In the Outdoors" column, published Thursday in the Las Vegas Review-Journal, is not affiliated with or endorsed by the NDOW. Any opinions he states in his column are his own. He can be reached at dougnielsen@att.net.