Review of 2014 spring hunting season published

A detailed report containing an extensive review of the 2014 spring hunting season has been published. The report describes decision-making process leading to the application of a spring hunting derogation, analysis of autumn 2013 bag data, an assessment of the present conservation status of turtle dove and quail, the necessary preparatory measures and regulatory controls effected prior to and during the season, scientific assessment of the migratory influxes of these species during the spring season, the reported hunter catches, enforcement efforts in place to ensure strict supervision, statistics pertaining to disclosed hunting-related offences and corresponding enforcement action taken, as well as the legal and other management aspects of relevance. Parliamentary Secretary for Animal Rights Roderick Galdes said the information presented in the report left little doubt over the government’s commitment to ensuring adherence, in the strictest manner possible, to the parameters of the limited spring hunting derogation, and to general implementation of the Birds Directive. The various actions underscoring this commitment included the report documents implementation of improved...