Buraydah: National Center for Wildlife (NCW) permits re-regulated hunting in Saudi Arabia.
Hunting is allowed in designated areas from September 1 to January 31. Officials have warned that the norms should be strictly followed and violators will face legal action.
According to the list published on NCW’s official Twitter account, only 25 species of animals are allowed to be hunted in autumn season and four species in winter season.
This requires hunting licenses and permits through the NCW Fetri platform. Endangered animals, birds and birds of prey should not be hunted. Hunting is allowed only with licensed weapons such as shot guns, air guns, fishing nets and gas tracking devices. Hunting is prohibited within the boundaries of cities, villages, farms, and recreation areas, in residential areas, and in military and industrial areas. Wildlife hunting is prohibited in reserve areas and major project areas.
Also, a distance of 20 km from the coastal areas of the country should be maintained. Hunting should be allowed in a way that does not harm the sustainability of natural resources and in accordance with the laws to protect biodiversity and ecological balance.
The five-month permit is based on geographic restrictions, data collection based on latest research, international hunting standards, studies and expert advice.
According to the notification, the illegal hunters who do not follow the warning of the Wildlife Center and the instructions from the Environment Security Force and the Home Ministry will face prosecution.