I strongly oppose the…

I strongly oppose the proposal to create a hunting season for Double-crested Cormorants.

I am surprised and disappointed that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is actually considering this proposal. How can one justify the destruction of a species because of the influential lobbyists who subjectively claim that these birds are only a detriment to the environment? How scientifically valid are any of these claims, and just how much do "aesthetics" actually influence the decision?

I also question whether any thought was given for natural diversity and proper native species conservation management? Killing simply for the purposes of extermination is not only wasteful, but also unethical.

Also, the proposed hunting season will run from March 15th to December 3rd. This includes their nesting season as well as that of other birds that nest with them such as gulls, which are a protected species. Will other birds that are “protected” be disturbed or destroyed as well? Of course, they will.

Additionally, an open hunting season practically year round will most certainly conflict with large numbers of other recreational users, creating a potential safety risk.

Please reject this proposal!