Italy's New Hunting Rules Spark EU Legal Threat, Environmental Backlash
Italy's hunting regulations have sparked controversy, with the EU Commission and environmental groups threatening legal action. New rules allow hunting in previously protected mountain passes and of certain protected birds in specific regions.
Italy, home to 450,000 registered hunters, has seen changes in its hunting regulations. A new law permits hunting within 1,000 meters of mountain passes, previously off-limits to protect migratory birds. Additionally, Liguria, Lombardy, Campania, and Trento have allowed the hunting of protected finks and starlings in October and November.
Bill No. 1552, currently under consideration, proposes further relaxations. It suggests easing the use of live decoy birds, reducing nature parks, allowing night vision devices, opening state forests for hunting, and abolishing exclusive hunting method requirements. However, these changes have drawn criticism from environmental organizations, leading to preparations for legal action by the EU Commission.
The hunting ban in certain zones has been limited to five days a week in January. Meanwhile, the definition of 'mountain passes' has been redefined to include lower elevations for hunting. Despite these changes, hunting patrols have been reduced since the 'Madia Decree' of 2015, making enforcement of hunting laws more challenging.
Italy's new hunting regulations have sparked debate and opposition from environmental groups. The EU Commission is preparing legal action, and regional courts have already intervened to halt parts of hunting calendars. With 450,000 registered hunters, the impact of these changes on Italy's wildlife and environment remains a contentious issue.
