New waterfowl research project needs volunteer hunter-scientists

duckDNA project launching to study duck hybridization across North America

Ducks Unlimited and the University of Texas at El Paso are looking for waterfowl hunters to actively participate in a duck research effort to help conservation groups better understand the genetic makeup of birds across the country.

The new duckDNA project is kicking off its first year and needs up to 300 hunter-scientists. Hunters selected will have the rare chance to be part of ground-breaking waterfowl research and also obtain scientifically vetted genetic information about the ducks they harvest.

Why we’re doing this

Research from the University of Texas at El Paso has revealed that over a century of game-farm mallard releases in the Atlantic Flyway has led to widespread hybridization with wild mallards. Other studies have uncovered potential differences in physiological and ecological traits between game-farm hybrids and pure wild mallards, which may impact reproduction, movements and duck distributions across their range.

Scientists need more genetic samples from across the country to determine the full scope of westward expansion of game-farm hybrids in North America, while studying how genetic makeup influences other aspects of waterfowl behavior, migration, or regional affiliations. Ducks Unlimited is partnering with one of the world’s leading waterfowl geneticists, Dr. Philip Lavretsky from the University of Texas at El Paso, to implement a pilot program to engage waterfowl hunters in providing genetic samples from harvested ducks.

“Waterfowlers have a proven history of dedication to conservation, research and the health of our duck populations,” Lavretsky said. “Scientists have spent decades studying bird populations, and new genetic techniques are opening an entirely new landscape of discovery. duckDNA is an exciting way for hunters to take an active role in ensuring robust populations of mallards for generations to come.”

How it works

Step 1. Apply

Hunters should apply at www.duckDNA.com. Researchers will select up to 300 participants for the first year. If selected, hunters will receive instructions to create a duckDNA account.

Step 2. Go Hunting!

Selected hunters will then receive a duckDNA kit with instructions for collecting tissue samples from harvested ducks. The study is prioritizing mallards, American black ducks, mottled ducks, and Mexican ducks, but hunters may submit any duck of interest.

Step 3. Log & Collect

Hunters will then log into their personalized duckDNA account and answer a few questions about each sample.

Step 4. Return Samples

Samples will be returned via pre-paid mail for genetic analysis.

Step 5. Get Results!

Genetic profiles of harvested ducks will be delivered directly to hunters’ duckDNA account!

Applications are now being accepted, and hunters from across the country will be selected and notified beginning in October.

“Ducks Unlimited has a long history of partnering with university researchers to answer questions affecting waterfowl management and wetland conservation,” said Dr. Mike Brasher, DU senior waterfowl scientist. “We’re thrilled to work with Dr. Lavretsky to bring duck hunters into the scientific process through the innovative project of duckDNA. Their contributions will help will guide waterfowl management and conservation for all hunters in North America.”

Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing wetlands, grasslands, and other waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has restored or protected more than 16 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science, DU’s projects benefit waterfowl, wildlife and people in all 50 states. DU is growing its mission through a historic $3 billion Conservation For A Continent capital campaign. Learn more at www.ducks.org.