Adapting to habitat changes

Hunting in open fields has become more prevalent in recent years. As natural wetlands and bottomland woods have disappeared, ducks and geese have become increasingly dependent on flooded agricultural fields for both food and shelter. Birds that formerly resided in small potholes and marshes have adapted well to these habitats.

Hunters must also adapt if they are to enjoy success in these wide-open spaces. And give them credit. People like Mackey, Boyle and McCarty are continuously pioneering new, better ways to get up close and personal with waterfowl. In open fields or elsewhere, give a duck hunter a challenge, and rest assured he’ll come up with a solution.