Q: I hunt a property that has both turkeys and a pond that ducks frequent. In the fall, I would like to hunt turkeys but also check the pond for ducks before I head home. Can I legally carry ammunition for both turkeys and waterfowl while hunting ducks?

-Randy Lambert, Simcoe

A: You cannot use shot other than non-toxic shot to hunt migratory game birds, with the exception of woodcock, in Ontario, nor can you possess shot other than non-toxic shot for the purpose of hunting a migratory game bird.

The best way to avoid any possibility of a misunderstanding occurring in the field is to not carry lead shot while hunting migratory game birds. There are actually non-toxic shot options available for wild turkey, meaning a hunter could carry non-toxic loads for both turkeys and ducks at the same time. If, however, you are carrying both lead shot and non-toxic shot, officers will exercise their discretion as dictated by the circumstances.

–David Critchlow (Provincial Enforcement Specialist, MNRF)

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Originally published in the Fall 2018 issue of Ontario OUT of DOORS magazine. Ask a CO is a regular feature in the print edition.

Please check the most recent Ontario hunting and fishing regulations summaries, as rules and regulations can change.

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