Cyprus hunting season for resident game begins November 1st

The hunting season for indigenous game, including hares, partridges, and francolins, will officially commence in Cyprus on Sunday, November 1, 2026. The season is scheduled to run until December 27, 2026, with hunting permitted on Sundays and Wednesdays for a total of 17 scheduled outings. Authorities, including the Game and Fauna Service and the Cyprus Hunting and Wildlife Conservation Federation, estimate that approximately 37,000 hunters will participate this year.

Hunters are strictly required to adhere to safety protocols, observe bag limits—specifically set at one hare, four partridges, and one francolin per outing—and report all catches using the Artemis CY mobile application before leaving the hunting area. Police and the Game and Fauna Service will conduct nationwide patrols to enforce regulations, prevent poaching, and monitor compliance with legal requirements. Additionally, the Department of Forests has issued a stern warning regarding fire safety, urging hunters to avoid lighting fires or discarding cigarette butts in the countryside due to the continued risk of wildfires.

This year’s outlook is considered more favorable than previous seasons, supported by successful breeding conditions and adequate rainfall throughout the year. The Game and Fauna Service noted that efforts to strengthen populations have included the release of approximately 75,000 partridges and 200 hares to bolster local wildlife levels.