Humane hunting focus of revised code

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A focus on humane hunting and protecting game bird resources features in a review of a code of conduct for game bird hunting being proposed by the Otago Fish and Game Council.

The council yesterday approved in principle a draft code, and a final proof will be sent to the New Zealand council for consideration in a week.

The Otago council last year updated its freshwater sports fishing code of conduct, and subsequently decided to update its code for game bird hunting too.

In particular, the previous code did not "place adequate emphasis on the humane treatment of game birds, and could be clearer in communicating key aspects of ethical behaviour for hunters", a report from Fish and Game officer Helen Trotter said.

The new code outlines four main areas of responsibility for hunters: to hunt humanely, protect game bird resources and hunting traditions, care for the environment, and respect the rights of others.

The "hunt humanely" section includes a requirement to retrieve all shot birds promptly and dispatch wounded game birds quickly and humanely, and the "protect game bird resources and our hunting traditions" includes the advice to "take no more than our immediate needs", for shooters to only kill game birds they intend to eat, and treat bag limits as limits, not as targets.

The code also asks for hunters to dispose of offal and carcasses responsibly, and to respect private property and always ask for access permission.

It also encourages hunters to share their knowledge and foster ethical attitudes and behaviour in hunting companions and youth.

A reminder of the requirement to use non-toxic, non-lead shot when shooting waterfowl on, near or over water is included in the code.

Once adopted, the updated code will be circulated extensively throughout the hunting sector.