Four Top Elements of the Ideal Waterfowl Property

If you are an avid waterfowl hunter, then your dream will be to own a property on one of the major flyways. However, some properties are better suited to waterfowl than others. Therefore, prospective buyers should be clear on the optimum conditions to attract a wide variety of birds during the migration seasons.

There are four areas that can make or break a waterfowl property. So, whether you are an experienced hand or a novice, these four top elements of the ideal waterfowl property will point you in the right direction.

Location

If you are a keen waterfowl hunter, then you will want to find a spot that lies within one of the major flyways. The two main flyways in the West are the Central and Pacific Flyways, which see vast numbers of migratory birds throughout the year.

The best areas will offer the birds safety and seclusion, so you will want to avoid setting up a property near a large township. Also, if you are planning to create some points, then you will want to build them away from any roads or buildings.

Water

The phrase “like a duck to water” highlights that waterfowl tend to congregate in areas where there are abundant water sources. Ranches and farms close to large bodies of water such as rivers and lakes will be ideally placed to attract various species of ducks and geese. For example, the Great Salt Lake in Utah offers the perfect mix of water and habitat, which always draws in birds during their migrations.

The best properties will maximize their water sources and try to create calm oases for migrating birds. Improvements such as the creation of ponds not only create refuges for the birds but also adds value to the property.

Habitat

Water is very important if you are aiming to go waterfowl hunting, but you are likely to attract more birds if there is a diverse habitat. In fact, you are likely to attract more wildlife in general! Waterfowl will also be looking for shelter and food alongside rivers, streams, or ponds. Ideally, waterfowl properties will have large riparian areas such as wetlands and marshes.

Central Kansas is home to one of the most extensive inland marshes in the states, and the tributaries of the Missouri River make ideal places to find waterfowl properties with the optimal habitat. As the owner of the property, it will be your responsibility to ensure that you maintain healthy ecosystems by participating in conservation programs and making well-thought-out improvements.

Food Sources

One of the major attractions for waterfowl is abundant food sources. If they can’t get what they need, they will move on to a different area. Therefore, you should plan your crop planting accordingly. Waterfowl, especially ducks, will be happy if they have easy access to corn, wheat, and rice.

The best properties will have a good mixture of grasses and other vegetation. This will keep the waterfowl coming back season after season.