The federal government is considering allowing the hunting of sandhill cranes in northern Ontario, potentially starting this autumn. The Canadian Wildlife Service has put forth a proposal for a controlled hunting season in specific northern regions, marking a first-time opportunity for legal crane hunting in Ontario.
After continuous pressure from hunters and farmers citing crop damage, the Canadian Wildlife Service conducted research on sandhill crane populations in Ontario and Quebec. The data collected revealed increasing conflicts with farmers and migration patterns of the cranes, leading to a comprehensive evaluation.
Sandhill cranes in Canada are divided into two main populations, with the eastern population in Ontario and Quebec totaling around 100,000 birds. Due to significant population growth over recent decades, the Canadian Wildlife Service believes the eastern population can sustain limited harvesting.
Historical data shows a remarkable recovery for sandhill cranes, which were once on the brink of extinction due to unregulated hunting and habitat destruction. The species’ adaptability to agricultural environments has contributed to their thriving numbers.
To address conflicts with farmers, a proposed hunting season would focus on areas in northern Ontario with high crane concentrations during fall migration. The season would last two weeks, allowing hunters to harvest one crane per day in designated locations, mainly on farmland.
Interested hunters have shown enthusiasm for the opportunity to hunt sandhill cranes, sometimes referred to as the “ribeye of the sky” for their flavorful meat. The proposed hunting regulations aim to balance conservation efforts with the enjoyment of hunting this game species.