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4 March, 2009

In Mourning for Native Ducks

There is a darkness about to descend over Tasmania.  With native duck shooting season due to begin this weekend many people are reflecting on the millions that have died at the hands of shooters in years gone by.  Against Animal Cruelty Tasmania (AACT) will be holding a memorial service in recognition of those lives lost in the annual slaughter of native waterbirds.

 “An open season on ducks is a euphemism for what is actually wetland warfare.” declared Chris Simcox of AACT, “Every year there is a war going on out there, but only one side is using weapons.  Native ducks are blasted with shotguns.  Some die quickly, some suffer horrific injuries and die more slowly, some escape with wounds and die agonizingly slow deaths.  The death toll is already in the millions.”

 Each year a team of rescuers makes way to the wetlands to defend the defenseless, armed only with flags and whistles.

 “We're taking this opportunity to show respect for the countless numbers of native ducks killed by recreational shooters.” announced Peter Power of Wildlife Tasmania,  “Every duck season leaves in its wake a legacy of death and destruction.  We are offering our sympathies to those who have died, and those that will continue die until this brutality ends.”

 Native Waterbirds Memorial Service

Parliament Lawns

Wednesday 4 March 2009 – 12.30pm

 For more information contact:

Chris Simcox, Against Animal Cruelty Tasmania,           Ph: 0429 015 110

Peter Power, Wildlife Tasmania,                                       Ph: 0417 017 105