Waterfowl hunting season may get longer

Duck populations in California jumped nearly 50% from last year, but conservationists warn global warming could shrink marshes and reduce waterfowl numbers in years to come.

The Department of Fish and Game estimates 615,200 ducks inhabit the state, up from 412,800 last year. Mallards jumped 21% to nearly 317,900.

State biologist Dan Yparraguirre credits duck-hunting restrictions for the rebound. With more birds, he says the Fish and Game Commission may decide in August to extend the winter hunting season and increase bag limits.

But a study by the National Wildlife Federation and the Planning and Conservation League released last week warns ducks, geese and other waterfowl face population declines this century as warmer global temperatures dry wetlands and push seawater into freshwater marshes.