Cyprus summer hunting season opens with new regulations for palm doves

The summer hunting season in Cyprus begins on Sunday, August 23, 2026, marked by specific government regulations regarding the hunting of the palm dove (Streptopelia senegalensis). Interior Minister Konstantinos Ioannou has issued a decree allowing the hunting of this species from August 23 until September 20, 2026, as part of wildlife management and research efforts. Hunters with a valid 2026–2027 license are permitted to participate using the Artemis Cy application, with a national limit of 30,000 birds. Each individual is restricted to a maximum of 50 birds for the entire period and 20 per excursion, allowed only between sunrise and sunset in designated hunting zones.

Simultaneously, the Cyprus Federation of Hunting and Wildlife Conservation has urged participants to prioritize safety and strictly adhere to legal requirements. Officials emphasize that during the initial two outings on August 23 and August 30, 2026, the hunting of turtle doves and quails is strictly prohibited. The harvesting of turtle doves and quails is scheduled to commence on September 2, 2026. Hunters are advised to exercise extreme caution and verify their targets before firing to ensure the safety of others and local properties.