Local animal advocates, conservationists, and concerned citizens are uniting at Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere to protest the upcoming bird shooting season to protect the sanctuary's diverse range of migratory and threatened native bird species and end what they see as unnecessary cruelty. Organised by Christchurch Animal Save, the event will go from sunrise to 4 PM on the season's opening day.

The protest seeks to raise awareness of the annual killing of hundreds of thousands of birds at Te Waihora, a practice that leaves many injured and suffering prolonged deaths. Participants are encouraged to attend, bringing vegan food to share in a spirit of community and compassion.

"Every year, we witness the devastating impact of this cruelty on our wildlife and communities," said Claire Coveney, an event organiser. "The distress caused by this killing spree extends far beyond those birds directly targeted. The noise, the disruption, and the sheer terror inflict lasting damage on the well-being of all birds in the vicinity."

The cruelty of this bloodsport is immense. Birds are lured into a false sense of security, tricked by decoys and artificial calls mimicking their own, only to be met with gunfire. Many are left to die slow and agonising deaths, riddled with pellets, in what they believed was their safe home.

Te Waihora is an internationally recognised migratory bird destination, making its protection paramount. The area provides crucial habitat for numerous species, and the annual shooting season poses a significant threat to their survival.

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A significant challenge lies in differentiating between protected and unprotected species, leading to the potential for accidental or intentional harm to vulnerable populations. Furthermore, bird shooting at Te Waihora is not monitored by Fish & Game or MPI, raising serious concerns about compliance with regulations and the overall impact on bird populations. This lack of oversight means that, in effect, no one is truly looking out for the birds' welfare.

Adding to the concerns, Sarah Jackson, an event organiser, notes, "Exposure to the killing of animals can have detrimental effects on a child's developing brain, potentially desensitising them to suffering and leading to emotional and behavioural problems later in life."

Acts of cruelty, such as maiming birds and the dumping of deceased birds, highlight the need for greater compassion and respect for all living beings. Protesters aim to expose these practices as a cruel bloodsport disguised as population control.

To amplify their message, participants are urged to bring noise-making devices and visual deterrents to scare birds away and disrupt the hunt. They also encourage others to bring signs and support the petition on Change.org titled "Ban Bird Shooting in Aotearoa NZ - Choose Compassion!"

The community hopes to demonstrate that collective voices can lead to meaningful change, fostering a more compassionate and sustainable future for Te Waihora and its precious birdlife. Individuals are invited to send direct messages to the organisers via social media or email christchurchanimalsave1@gmail.com for further queries. Attendance can be confirmed by visiting the Facebook event page titled "Protest Against Bird Shooting Season at Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere".

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