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The current captive-breeding program inventory stands at 1.2 Baer’s Pochards and 12.10 Pacific Black ducks (9.7 are offspring from the 3 imported pairs). Seven pairs of black ducks are available for placement. The Committee will review and summarize the guidelines for placement.
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Three pairs of Chinese Spotbill are on hold and awaiting shipment. A source for Hawaiian Ducks is still being researched. The Committee requests that the allocated $3,500 from 2006 being held over for use in 2007. These funds, as originally planned, will be used to import Hawaiian ducks and/or Chinese Spotbills.
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Recently the inventory of waterfowl in zoos has dropped at a steady rate. The efforts and commitment of IWWA will help offset some of these drops in inventory numbers. However, without a commitment from zoos to dedicate staff, space and funding the efforts of IWWA will not keep up with the dwindling inventory numbers. Tim Snyder is working Avian Scientific Advisory Group and has agreed to be a liaison between AZA and IWWA. The Board of IWWA should consider an aggressive campaign to encourage zoos to commit to maintaining safe numbers of the waterfowl of the world.
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Bird shipping in North America has recently improved via a contractual agreement between Federal Express and the US post office. Federal Express will now carry “Lives”. Service is currently limited, available to and from USPS Air Mail Facilities. Bird Shippers of America has been instrumental in getting this agreement in place.
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The Torrent Duck project has stalled due to the political climate in Venezuela. Consideration may be given to working in a more cooperative country in South America.
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An Orinoco Goose update will be provided by Mike Lubbock during his presentation at this year’s convention.
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There are no reports available regarding the status of the White-winged Wood ducks in Sumatra or the Brazilian Merganser.
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The North American breeding population of Steller’s Eiders continue to struggle. This year resulted in good nesting activity although, lower than expected when viewed relative to high shore bird nesting activity and large numbers of Snowy Owl nests. In comparison to last year the clutch sizes were larger, eggs normal size and fertility high. Unfortunately, predators took a large toll on the ducklings.
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Brant nesting conditions on the YK Delta were very good this year, mostly due to a fox control program and good numbers of lemmings. Maynard Axelson will be giving an update, on this past season’s brant nesting activity, during his presentation at this year’s convention.
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Snow Geese continue to produce huge numbers.
Washington State is currently proposing AI testing during annual game farm health inspections. The game farm will be required to test 10% or a maximum of 30 of their birds annually. This requirement will likely discourage some breeders and cause them to quit keeping birds. Additionally this may discourage new comers to private avicultural. How many other states are requiring similar testing?
