The survey will be conducted by wildlife biologists who will record the presence, species and number of game ducks at more than 860 water bodies across Victoria, including wetlands, farm dams, sewerage treatment plants, streams and rivers.
Most sites will be surveyed by helicopter, with ground counts used on some occasions
Satellite imaging will be used to determine how much water is in game duck habitats in Victoria, which, together with the survey data, will be used to estimate the total abundance of each game duck species in the state.
This data is used to set sustainable duck hunting arrangements each year.
GMA research principal Dr Jason Flesch said regularly collecting data was critical to understanding what drives game duck population numbers.
“Results from this survey will help to accurately estimate total game duck abundance, based on the environmental conditions at the time,” Dr Flesch said.
The survey will also provide an important surveillance tool to assist in detecting the spread of avian influenza.
Detections of any mass mortality of waterbirds or other birds will be reported to the appropriate authorities.
The flight schedule may change from day to day or be extended depending on weather conditions or other factors.
The results of the survey will be published on the GMA website in 2027.
For more information, including a generalised map of the proposed flight path, visit: gma.vic.gov.au/research/duck-research
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