The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service forecasts encouraging numbers for duck hunting in Iowa during the 2025 season, with a stable overall population of 34 million ducks in monitored areas. While the populations of several key species, including mallards and pintails, show slight increases, challenges remain with some groups like the lesser scaup declining by 10% compared to last year.
Water conditions and local wetland health will play crucial roles in determining the success of the upcoming season. The survey indicates that the breeding population of mallards stands at 6.6 million, roughly similar to last year’s count but 17% lower than the long-term average. Hunters will be eager to see how environmental factors and migratory patterns evolve as the season approaches.
Read full story at siouxcityjournal.com
