Double-crested Cormorant Shooting Permit 

1. Cormorants fall under provincial jurisdiction. A resident hunter may harvest Double-crested Cormorants under the authority of a permit, with a valid Outdoor Identification Card, available from the Newfoundland and Labrador Wildlife Division.
2. Double-crested Cormorants differ from Great Cormorants which are protected and not permitted to be harvested due to their population status. Shooters must be knowledgeable in waterbird identification to prevent the killing of non-target species. Shooting a Great Cormorant is an offense under the Wild Life Act and Regulations.
3. Once available, permits will be able to be printed or saved on a mobile device by logging into your account in the Wildlife Information Management System.  Permit applications are free and will be available starting fall of 2026.
4. The permit period for shooting Double-crested Cormorants begins September 16, 2026 and closes March 10, 2027. Permits are valid within the province, except in closed areas.
5. Shooting of Double-crested Cormorants is permitted with a shotgun and only using non-toxic shot sizes (use of rifle ammunition or slugs is prohibited). It is recommended that harvesters use at least non-toxic shot size #4 or larger.
6. Hunters must make all reasonable efforts to immediately retrieve any Double-crested Cormorants that are shot and must collect and dispose of the same in accordance with guidelines for safe handling and disposal of wild bird carcasses.
7. All harvested Double-crested Cormorants must be recorded on your permit return available online and within seven days of the close of the season. Failure to complete your return will result in not being able to apply for future permits.
8. Permit holders may be requested to provide carcasses to the of the Department of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands for sampling and research purposes.
9. All other laws of general application apply to the possession, transport and use of firearms under the Wild Life Act and Regulations and Federal Firearms Act and Regulations.

The Wildlife Division will use the Double-created Cormorant Return to evaluate a number of key factors related to this permit, including its effectiveness in managing DCC populations throughout the province. This permit may also be cancelled at the discretion of the Department.

Safe Handling and Disposal of Carcasses

It is generally considered safe to handle healthy wild birds. However, because exposure to avian influenza can occur when handling dead wild birds it is recommended that you:

• Before harvesting birds in areas where an outbreak of avian influenza has been reported, please check that restrictions in your area have not changed.
• Do not handle or eat sick birds or birds that have died from unknown causes.
• When handling:
  • Avoid direct contact with blood, feces, and respiratory secretions of all wild birds
  • Always work in a well-ventilated environment
    • If working outdoors, try to stay upwind of birds to avoid inhaling dust, feathers and aerosols
  • Do not eat, drink, or smoke
  • Wear gloves (e.g. vinyl, latex, nitrile, rubber)
  • Wash hands with soap and warm water immediately after you have finished. If you do not have access to water, use hand sanitizer or wipe with at least 60 percent alcohol.
  • Keep young children and pets away from areas that could be contaminated.
• After you are done, thoroughly clean and disinfect tools and work surfaces with hot, soapy water and then use a household disinfectant.
• Immediately remove and wash clothing and footwear that may be contaminated with blood, feces or respiratory secretions.
  • Not only does this protect your health, but also helps to prevent the spread of potential viruses.
• If you become ill after handling birds, see your doctor. Inform your doctor that you have been in contact with wild birds.

If you observe sick or dead birds and suspect that disease may be involved, contact the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative at 1- 800-567-2033 or locally at 709 685-7273

Pets

As part of general best practices, it is recommended to keep your cat or dog away from dead bird carcasses to prevent contact with sick or dead wild birds as well as wild bird feces. Pet owners should not feed pets (e.g., dogs or cats) any raw meat from game birds or poultry. Pet owners can also consult with their veterinarian for more information on avian influenza in dogs and other pets.

Disposal Options 

Wear gloves and avoid contact with blood, body fluids and feces.  Use a doubled plastic bag to place carcasses. Key children and pets away from carcasses. After disposal, thoroughly clean and disinfect tools (e.g. shovel) with hot, soapy water and then use a household disinfectant.

• Incineration (burning)

  • May require municipal or provincial burn permit and follow regulations.

• Burial

  • Where possible bury carcasses at least 1 meter deep and add hydrated lime to deter scavengers from digging.

• Landfill/regular garbage/other waste disposal programs (check with local municipal or provincial waste authorities).

  • Carcasses should be double bagged and sealed