A hunter’s guide to invasive Phragmites in Ontario

Invasive species threaten hunting and waterfowling by reducing biodiversity in wetlands and providing poor foraging and habitat for ducks and other game animals.

One of the biggest threats facing wetlands across Ontario is invasive Phragmites (Phragmites australis), a tall, aggressive reed that spreads quickly and crowds out the native plants and open water that waterfowl and other wildlife depend on.

Unlike healthy native wetland vegetation, dense stands of invasive Phragmites create thick monocultures that reduce biodiversity, limit wildlife movement and degrade habitat for ducks, amphibians, turtles and many other wetland species. As a hunter, you can help these wetlands thrive by identifying phragmites and responding proactively.

To identify invasive Phragmites look for:

• Dense stands of tall reeds, often exceeding four metres in height.
• Large, feathery seed heads.
• Thick stems and extensive patches that dominate wetlands.
• Few openings or diverse plant species beneath the canopy.

If you’re unsure what you’ve found, it’s always best to leave it undisturbed.

Four simple ways hunters can help

Protecting wetlands doesn’t stop when the hunt begins. A few simple habits can help prevent invasive Phragmites from spreading to new areas.

1. Learn to recognize invasive Phragmites before heading into the field.
2. Don’t harvest Phragmites for duck blinds or concealment. Even small pieces of stems or roots can contribute to its spread.
3. Avoid walking through dense stands whenever possible. Seeds and plant fragments can cling to boots, clothing, dogs, decoys and equipment.
4. Clean your gear before leaving the marsh. Brush mud and vegetation from boots, waders, decoy bags, boats and trailers. A boot brush and lint roller are simple tools that can prevent seeds from travelling to your next hunting location.

Become a wetland steward

Hunters are among the people who spend the most time in wetlands and are often the first to notice changes on the landscape.

If you spot invasive Phragmites on a Ducks Unlimited Canada property, consider reporting it through iNaturalist or EDDMapS. Your observations contribute valuable information that helps conservation organizations better understand where invasive species are spreading and where management efforts are needed most.

Ducks Unlimited Canada is also a proud partner of the Ontario Phragmites Action collaborative, working alongside communities, researchers and conservation organizations to help reduce the impacts of invasive Phragmites across the province. Learn more about the collaborative, local projects and Phragmites Management Areas at Ontario Phragmites Action.

Ducks Unlimited Canada is grateful for the many ways that hunters are actively supporting these shared and vital landscapes.