Our connection with hunting and conservation today
Today’s hunters recognize that although we’ve come a long way, we still need to be vigilant. As an outdoor community, hunters are among the strongest contributors to habitat conservation and are key drivers of Canada’s economy.
Because of the early and ongoing support of hunters, we can invest every dollar entrusted in us into our mission: to conserve, restore, and manage wetlands for North America’s waterfowl, wildlife and people.
The next time you eat a fresh-caught fish, swim in your favourite lake, hike in a scenic landscape, spot a butterfly in a meadow or enjoy birdsong at dawn, remember that hunters started and continue to support the movement that makes these special moments possible.
Ducks Unlimited Canada supports the sustainable use of renewable resources based on sound science
We regard waterfowl hunting, conducted in a legal and sustainable manner, as a legitimate and acceptable use of a renewable resource.
Ducks Unlimited Canada does not direct its resources toward the influence of firearm or hunting legislation unless the legislation is clearly and directly related to waterfowl habitat conservation.
Celebrating Canada’s outdoor lifestyle
Celebrating Canada’s outdoor traditions also means we celebrate the role of hunters in our conservation success story.
That’s why we offer special events and activities with hunting themes, sponsor Canadian outdoor writers, and partner with The Canadian Tradition, to highlight this special connection with the people who are an integral part of our heritage—and our future.
A story of legacy and conservation
Hunting in Quebec
Flocking to nature
What does the growing interest in live-off-the-land DIY mean for conservation?
Hunters: the original Marsh Keepers
How waterfowlers shaped DUC's mission more than 80 years ago, and what it means for conservation today.
Resources for hunters
We encourage everyone to get outdoors and experience the natural places we’re conserving—and we’re proud to offer a number of resources to help hunters and non-hunters alike.
Ducks from a distance: helpful hints for identification in the wild
Tips from waterfowl experts on overcoming identification challenges for the 20+ species of ducks that live in North America.
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Duck Navigator
An interactive map identifies habitat projects that are owned by Ducks Unlimited Canada and our partners.
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Wetland Habitat Reports
Get the inside scoop from our field reporters on what spring habitat conditions looked like for our returning ducks and geese on their Canadian breeding grounds.
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Resources for hunters
Access information on waterfowl species, hunt locations, habitat conditions and tools to help you learn and share your passion with others.
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Looking to the future
Mentoring the next generation of hunter-conservationists
Most hunters can recall their first harvest as if it was yesterday. Few images embed themselves into our memory like the first time we watched a flight of hard-banking mallards or Canada geese drop into the decoys. As indelible as that memory is, equally etched in our recollection is the memory of the family member or friend who mentored us in the field that day.
We know that learning or teaching hunting can be intimidating. We also know that hunting is an important part of the future of conservation in Canada. And so we’re proud to work with a variety of conservation-minded partners to support mentors and first-time hunters with resources to help create a safe and ethical hands-on learning experience.
We offer:
- Certificates of appreciation for mentors who provide their expertise through events organized by groups who have received support directly or indirectly from DUC.
- Certificates for mentored hunt participants, which includes a Conservation Pledge outlining their commitment to be safe, ethical, conservation-minded hunters.
- Downloadable PowerPoint presentations about waterfowl identification and ethical hunting.
- Waterfowl ID pocket guides.