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Histories Forgotten: 1900s over-hunting and the decline in waterfowl

Illinois regulations in the early 1900s allowed resident hunters to harvest 50 ducks per day. Sporting magazines and local newspapers began “calling out” hunters for taking too much game and wrecking resources. (Photos courtesy of AHUS)

As the 1900s began, one of the most contentious issues facing Illinois’ game commissioner was the destructive practice of spring shooting – permitting hunting during the critical breeding season. Only seven of the states that currently regulated waterfowl hunting ended their hunting season on or before Jan. 1; six additional states permitted hunting until April 1; five states, including Illinois, set April 15 as their closing date.

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