Magpie geese hunting is a popular and regulated activity in the Top End of the Northern Territory (NT), especially around Darwin and surrounding reserves. The NT government manages the hunt through strict seasonal dates, permit requirements, and bag limits to ensure sustainability and ethical practices.
Season Dates and Permits
- Hunting magpie geese and other waterfowl is only allowed during the official, declared season each year. The season dates can change annually, and outside the season, hunting is strictly prohibited. Often sometime between September and January.
- A valid hunting permit is required for all hunters. Permits are issued by the NT Parks and Wildlife office.
Where You Can Hunt
- Hunting is permitted on designated hunting reserves:
- Shoal Bay Coastal Reserve
- Howard Springs Hunting Reserve
- Lambells Lagoon Conservation Reserve
- Harrison Dam Conservation Reserve
- Hunting on private land is allowed only with explicit permission from the landholder.
- Hunting is not permitted in other parks, wilderness areas, or sanctuaries.
Bag Limits and Species
- The daily bag limit is:
- 7 magpie geese per hunter
- 10 other permitted waterfowl per hunter
- If camping away from home for three or more days, the possession limit is 21 magpie geese and 30 other waterfowl per person.
Firearms and Ammunition
- Only shotguns between 10 and 20 gauge (category A, or category B lever-action with max 5-round magazine) are allowed.
- Only non-toxic shot is permitted (steel or other non-lead alternatives), with specific shot size requirements for geese and waterfowl.
- Rifles, pistols, pump-action, and self-loading shotguns are prohibited. Lead shot is illegal.
Hunting Practices and Ethics
- Hunters are encouraged to aim for instant kills to prevent unnecessary suffering.
- Only approved species may be targeted, and hunters must clearly identify their targets.
- Dogs may be used for retrieving shot birds (up to 3 per group), but not for chasing or harassing live birds.
- Decoys are permitted.
- Hunters must not leave edible portions of the carcass behind and must dispose of remains properly.
Cultural and Environmental Context
- Magpie geese are abundant in the Top End, with populations managed to ensure sustainability. They can cause significant crop damage, and hunting is sometimes conducted as crop protection for local farmers.
- The hunting experience is accessible, with some reserves located within a short drive from Darwin, making it a draw for both locals and visitors.
- The activity is celebrated by enthusiasts for its sporting challenge and the culinary value of magpie goose meat.
Summary Table: Key Regulations
| Aspect | Regulation/Limit |
|---|---|
| Season | Declared annually; closed outside set dates |
| Permit | Mandatory for all hunters |
| Daily Bag Limit | 7 magpie geese, 10 other waterfowl per hunter |
| Possession Limit | 21 geese, 30 waterfowl (if away from home ≥3 days) |
| Firearms | 10-20 gauge shotgun (no pump/self-loading) |
| Ammunition | Non-toxic shot only, specific shot sizes |
| Approved Hunting Areas | 4 specified reserves, private land with permission |
| Carcass Disposal | Edible portions must be taken, proper disposal |
| Use of Dogs/Decoys | Up to 3 dogs for retrieval, decoys permitted |
For up-to-date season dates, permit applications, and detailed maps of hunting reserves, consult the NT Government Parks and Wildlife website or contact their permits office.