Illegal hunting practices causing environmental and social issues in Cyprus

In Cyprus, the Cyprus Hunting & Wildlife Preservation Federation (KOK&DAZ) has reported an increase in illegal hunting practices, including the unauthorized placement of food stations to attract game like wood pigeons and the illicit marking of hunting spots with wooden pallets to claim territory. These actions have led to confrontations between hunters and represent a significant disruption to fair hunting practices.

Beyond social tensions, these practices pose severe environmental and health risks. Officials warn that concentrating wildlife in one location makes animals easier prey for predators and poachers. Furthermore, artificial feeding with grains like wheat or corn can cause severe illness or death in animals such as hares and mouflons. There is also a major concern regarding carcinogenic substances that form in food left in humid, warm conditions. While current laws prohibit hunting with food, there is a legal loophole regarding the act of simply leaving food in the forest, making prosecution difficult.

Authorities have informed the Federation that they will begin dismantling and destroying all unauthorized materials found in the wild. The Federation is working to address the legal gaps to better enforce environmental protections and maintain safety in rural areas.