Kyrgyz Authorities Tighten Hunting Regulations
Kyrgyzstan has introduced stricter hunting regulations, updating the rules for the first time in a decade. The new regulations govern hunting farms, the hunting of wild animals -- including species listed as endangered in Kyrgyzstan's 'Red Book' -- and define the rights and responsibilities of hunters. Stricter Control Over Hunting Activities Under the revised rules, simply being present in hunting grounds within specially protected natural areas while carrying firearms, pneumatic weapons, or throwing weapons is now considered hunting. The same applies if an individual is found with traps, snares, or game, regardless of whether they were caught in the act of hunting. Hunting in Kyrgyzstan is now only allowed with the following criteria: Possession of a valid hunting license issued by the relevant authorities; Payment of the state fee for hunting; A police permit for the possession, carrying, and use of firearms. Additionally, foreign hunters can now only participate in hunting tours when accompanied by a gamekeeper. Approved Hunting Methods and Seasonal Restrictions The law specifies approved hunting methods, allowing the use of: Smooth-bore and rifled firearms (except for hunting birds); Crossbows and bows; Traps (within size restrictions); Hunting dogs and birds of prey for tracking game. The hunting season may be shortened by up to 15 days, depending on environmental conditions and the biological cycles of wild animals. Additionally, hunting is now banned on Tuesdays and Wednesdays year-round, designated as "quiet days." Limits on Hunting of Endangered Species The new regulations set strict quotas for the hunting of wild animals in Kyrgyzstan. “It is prohibited to hunt wild animals and birds that are not included in the official list of authorized hunting species. Hunting of Red Book-listed wildlife, birds of prey, and songbirds is allowed only by a decision of the authorized state body, with a maximum limit of 1% of the total population,” the law states. Foreign hunters, in particular, are drawn to endangered argali and Marco Polo rams, which are listed in Kyrgyzstan’s Red Book. As The Times of Central Asia previously reported, a U.S. citizen attempted to smuggle parts of a hunted argali back to the United States for cloning. Unlimited Hunting of Wolves and Jackals One notable exception to the new restrictions is wolves and jackals, which pose a serious threat to rural communities. Unlike other species, their hunting is neither restricted nor subject to quotas. These predators frequently attack livestock, and as a result, villagers often offer significant bounties for their removal.
