Hunting and Processing

Summary

The purpose of this report is to summarize information concerning the hunting systems and hunted species in Europe, Australia, Kosovo, and Nigeria. In total there are 36 countries reported.

Hunting is a long tradition in all countries. The demographic development when more people are living in cities creates differences between more and less urbanized countries. The bigger part of the inhabitants is living in rural areas the more important part the hunting still is in daily life.

Hunting systems are very varying and the right to hunt is mostly connected to land ownership. The landowners can delegate hunting to hunters with permits for specific species. For big game there can be a specific licence system to regulate the number of hunted individuals. In some countries the state has the monopoly on hunting. Certain areas can be closed for hunting all times and for all species to conserve the natural ecosystems.

To be a hunter is regulated in every country. Some countries demand the age of 18 before it is possible to get a weapon and hunting license. These are connected to special training and even for a period of training before a person can hunt alone.

Hunting weapons are regulated when it comes to maximum prey size and calibre of rifle. Hunting periods are mostly regulated for main species. Differences between countries do exist. Hunted species are many and hunting bags regulated in most countries as a part of wildlife management activities.