In this case though, the OP is in Manitoba, where they are colloquially all known as chickens. This was explained ad nauseam already. We are not "remaining blissfully ignorant" as you suggest. People hunt "swamp donkeys" all the time, and others don't feel the need to constantly point at them and say "you know that's not really a donkey, right?"
As for the OP, good luck. I'm starting to see more and more of them out my way lately, this could be a good season!
I'm not suggesting there's any problem with calling them chickens or swamp donkeys, provided you know what they actually are. All I'm saying is, if you come on this board and ask for advice/ideas related to hunting a particular species, you need to know what species you're talking about, as do those who would provide such advice. Otherwise, you might as well be asking for people's experience on hunting "those there birds".
I know the vast majority of Manitoba hunters are great folks and we'd get on famously, if we met. But new hunters ask these questions for a reason. They know they don't have all the facts and they would like the benefit of the combined knowledge of the more experienced.
As I pointed out, if the seasons open and close on the same dates, there's not much chance of an issue (unless you exceed daily or possession limits). In mentioning that, I knew there will be some zones where this is the case. I also knew that this doesn't apply to all zones.
I did not intend to offend anyone and I sincerely apologise if my written tone failed in that regard. But, when it comes to firearms safety and/or hunting regulations, there's no room for tradition or local sensibilities. This forum can be a major asset to new hunters/shooters. However, we have to be careful that, when safety or laws are concerned that the information provided is both accurate and complete.
I won't apologise for pointing out that "chickens, and "swamp donkeys" for that matter, are acceptable colloquialisms in casual conversation, but they are useless generalizations in a discussion such as this.
Ruffed,Spruce,Hungarian,Sharp-tailed here in the gbhz i hunt in Manitoba all have the same opening date. I grew up in Northwestern Ontario and frequented the bush as often as I could. I know what my quarry is, just need to connect with some (one). As far as a conservation officer, well they are so short staffed here. Likely never see one. I have been fishing for years and never see them. All of our resources are so fragile. I hunt and fish WITHIN the regs. I wish that I could say the same for alot of people, but thats not me.
Good to hear that you're an ethical hunter and that you know your birds. I was hoping we could help you keep it that way. In the area you'll be hunting, do you expect to find ruffed, spruce, and sharptail grouse, as well as hungarians?
