The proposal to classify…

The proposal to classify Cormorants as 'game' birds and introduce an extended hunting season is alarming and has many serious problems.
1. The bill seems to be initiated because of 'expressed concerns' whereas the basis should be clear and supported evidence. Cormorants are a native species and part of the Great Lakes ecosystem.
2. The proposed hunting season is during breeding season for most Ontario birds. Cormorants, although colonial nesters do not live and breed in isolation. Allowing hunting through spring and summer will disrupt and endanger many other species including species at risk. This is not ethically responsible.
3. The proposed bag limit is unprecedented and alarming - clearly the birds that are shot will not be processed as 'game' birds. What will happen to all the carcasses? How is this enforceable?
4. Why would hunters be allowed all through recreational season (and in boats)? No other hunting season or species is treated in such an unsafe way in Ontario.

The goal of the bill seems to be control of cormorant populations. There are much more responsible and effective ways to go about this.

Please do not proceed with this legislation. It seems to be poorly thought through and will only create many more environmental and social problems.