The breeding population of mallards increased from 262,424 in 2004 to 317,869 this year, a 21-percent increase, and the number of total ducks increased from 412,799 to 615,241 (49 percent). Mallards, however, are still below the long-term average. “We expect better production and a larger fall flight this year because of the late, abundant spring rains,” said Dan Yparraguirre, Senior Biologist Specialist.
DFG biologists and warden pilots have conducted this survey using fixed-wing aircraft since 1955. The California Waterfowl Association, under contract with DFG, has assisted with the survey for the past 12 years. The population estimates are for the surveyed areas only, and surveyed areas include wetland and agricultural areas in northeastern California, throughout the Central Valley, the Suisun Marsh, and some coastal valleys.
The DFG is waiting for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service breeding population estimates from the primary breeding areas of waterfowl — Alaska, the northcentral portion of the United States, and Canada. The majority of California's wintering duck population originates from the federally surveyed areas. Once DFG receives the estimates and the federal frameworks for waterfowl hunting regulations, it will then make a recommendation to the Fish and Game Commission regarding this year's waterfowl hunting regulations.
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