A cache of 142 dead migratory birds has been dumped on property outside Saskatoon, CBC News reported.
what happened
Someone left the carcasses on private land near Patience Lake on October 16th. Snow geese accounted for 129 of the total, while ducks accounted for the remainder except for one Canada goose.
Officers shared an image of a pickup truck linked to the crimes of trespassing, littering, and not harvesting animals. A $2,000 reward is available through a tip line for details that result in charges.
Chris Maier, an inspector with the Conservation Officer Service, said such violations occur repeatedly every year. Irresponsible hunters kill the animals and then throw them away to avoid the work of processing.
The combined penalties for illegal entry, littering, and hunting waste can push fines above 20,000 Canadian dollars.
“It’s disgusting,” said Jordan Rowswell, the owner of 12 Gauge Outfitting in Battleford, Saskatchewan. “It’s an absolute waste of not only meat but a resource. It gives every hunter out there a bad name.”
Why is wildlife waste a concern?
This points to a larger problem affecting conservation efforts across North America. When hunters kill animals and dispose of them, they harm the wildlife populations that other species and ecosystems depend on.
Waste threatens food security as hunters often donate excess meat to food banks. Throwing away edible protein means families who need it go without.
Bird populations are also facing increasing pressures from habitat loss and climate impacts. Unnecessary deaths from wasteful hunting practices make recovery more difficult for already stressed species.
Dumping damages the reputation of ethical hunters who follow regulations and use what they harvest as well. This stigma can lead to tighter hunting restrictions that have a negative impact on responsible outdoor enthusiasts.
Some conservation groups worry that lax regulations will attract hunters from other areas who collect hundreds of birds during extended trips, then struggle to transport or process them.
What is being done about wildlife waste?
Professional clothing companies follow certain standards and can lose their licenses if they are caught dumping carcasses. These businesses typically help customers process and transport the harvest properly.
If you hunt, freeze extra meat to use another time or donate it to local food programs and families. Many communities welcome these contributions as a source of lean and healthy protein.
Contact your local representatives and voice support for policies that prevent wildlife litter. Some provinces limit how far non-resident hunters can pursue migratory birds, which can reduce overharvesting.
Report the suspected violation to conservation officers immediately. Your call can prevent future littering and protect wildlife populations.
��
Get TCD’s free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD’s exclusive Rewards Club.