Season forecast looks great, biologist says

Chad Adams

In September, blue-winged teal become accessible to hunters along the coast of Louisiana when they make one final pit stop to fuel up for food here during their migration to South America.

With the breeding population estimates always playing a huge factor in predicting how the season shapes up, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Waterfowl Study Leader Larry Reynolds said this year’s teal season has the potential to be a memorable one.

"As far as populations go, it is shaping up to be very similar to the record-breaking year we had for the 16-day season last year," Reynolds said. "With a new record-high 9.2 million blue-winged teal estimated on the breeding grounds with a slightly lower number of ponds, and with little drought to worry about in Louisiana habitats this year, the teal season looks to be very promising across the state."