Geographic Variation in the Harvest of Eurasian Wigeon 11th September 2024
Age and Sex Differences Uncovered by Feather Isotope Analysis
A recent study published in the European Journal of Wildlife Research highlights the migratory patterns and geographic origins of Eurasian wigeon (Mareca penelope), a key waterfowl species in Europe. Using stable-hydrogen (δ2H) isotope analysis of feathers from harvested birds, the researchers examined the spatial and temporal shifts in wigeon populations hunted in Finland.
Text: Lene Midtgaard
Photo: Colourbox
The study found significant geographic variation in the origin of harvested wigeon, depending on the birds’ age and sex. Juveniles and adult females showed a migration pattern that shifted from local or western Russian populations to long-distance migratory groups during the hunting season. Adult males, however, did not exhibit the same migratory shift, indicating sex-specific migratory behaviors.
The findings show the importance of understanding these differences for a better management of wigeon populations, particularly in Finland, where local breeding populations have been declining. Such insights can aid in designing more targeted conservation efforts and regulations to ensure sustainable harvesting of this species.
The study highlights the potential to regulate harvests based on migration timing and demographic data, offering a model for managing migratory waterfowl populations across Europe.
Data from the Waterfowlers’ Network Project Penelope, contributed to the study.
A huge thank you to the funders. The study was funded and supported by The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Finland, the BASC Wildlife Fund, The Danish Hunters’ Nature Fund and Waterfowlers’ Network. Open Access funding provided by University of Turku (including Turku University Central Hospital).