Cyprus summer hunting season begins amid red alert for wildfires

The summer hunting season in Cyprus officially began on Sunday, August 23, 2026, with an estimated 17,000 to 19,000 hunters heading into the countryside. The season is scheduled to continue every Sunday until September 13, as well as on Wednesdays, September 2, 9, and 16. Authorities have mandated that hunters declare their catch electronically via the “Artemis” application before exiting hunting grounds. Currently, permitted game includes wood pigeons, rock doves, and francolins, with quail and turtle dove hunting set to open on September 2.

The launch coincided with a "Red Alert" level for forest fire risks issued by the Forestry Department, prompting police and wildlife services to conduct widespread patrols. While authorities reported that the opening day proceeded without major incidents, police issued multiple citations for poaching and carrying weapons in prohibited areas. Meanwhile, many hunters expressed frustration over limited game and restricted hunting zones, suggesting that the season should have been cancelled due to environmental conditions. In response, officials stated that habitat pressures make it difficult to designate additional hunting areas, and enforcement operations will continue throughout the season to ensure safety and compliance.