A comparison of two hand-reared mallard release methods

Abstract

In 1975 and 1976, 537 wild-strain, hand-reared mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) ducklings were released on a large marsh in southern Manitoba to compare 2 release methods concurrently. More hens returned in subsequent years from releases made early in the summer than later, using either method, in both first and second years post-release. More hens were sighted on the study area that were from the outdoor pen of the gentle release method than from the direct release method. Hens from gentle releases were also sighted on the area earlier in both springs post-release. Low (11%) pre-fleding mortality with the gentle release may have allowed the greater return. A homing rate of 33% for yearling hens was calculated for the gentle-release birds.