New measures to control wild boar populations in Andalusia

On Monday, the Ministry published a resolution in the Official Gazette of the Andalusian Government (BOJA) declaring the entire region as a Hunting Emergency Area due to the overpopulation of wild boars and feral pigs. The main objective of this measure is to control the health and safety risks and the damage to agriculture and livestock caused by these species.

Simplification of Procedures and New Measures

The new resolution eliminates bureaucratic procedures for hunting societies, thus facilitating the control of the wild boar and stag population. In addition, the possibility of holding hunts in hunting reserves with primary or secondary use of big game hunting throughout the season is established.

As a novelty for this season, the resolution allows those hunting reserves that are in the process of having their technical hunting plans drawn up to adhere to the damage control measures contemplated.

Specific Measures for Population Control

Among the measures highlighted, the use of non-polluting or environmentally harmful attractants, such as odorous substances, food or plant extracts, and urine derivatives, will be permitted. The punctual and concentrated supply of plant food or feed at a single point three days prior to the holding of the waiting area is also authorized. However, the use of equipment or utensils for dispensing food and the scattering of food in places far from the waiting area is prohibited.

Use of Night Vision and Thermal Vision Devices

The resolution allows, as in the previous season, the exceptional use of night or thermal scopes attached to long rifles during night hunts, exclusively for the capture of wild boar. This measure, promoted by the Andalusian Hunting Federation, increases safety and efficiency by improving the identification of the specimens to be captured.

Reaffirmation of the Role of Hunting and Call to Redouble Efforts

The Ministry has reiterated the importance of hunting in controlling the overpopulation of wild boars and feral pigs, stressing the need for hunting societies to step up their efforts and make the most of the management measures in place.

It is crucial that these measures are not used as an opportunity to hunt large wild boars or to increase hunting days indiscriminately. The objective of the resolution is to control the population of these species to mitigate health and safety risks and damage to agriculture and livestock, not to promote uncontrolled sport hunting. If these measures are abused, the established objectives will not be met and the actions will not last over time, putting the effectiveness and sustainability of game management at risk.

Technical Assistance for Hunters

For any questions or queries, hunting societies and federated hunters in Andalusia can contact the Technical Service of the Andalusian Hunting Federation through the Provincial Delegation of the FAC in each province. This service is available free of charge and provides personalized assistance in each case.

This declaration of a hunting emergency is a significant step in the management and control of wild boar and feral pig populations in Andalusia, seeking to mitigate the risks and damage that these species cause in the region, always from a responsible and sustainable approach.