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Education

Forest Etiquette for Hobby Hunters

Whether cyclists, horse riders or hikers: the forest is a recreational area. For wildlife, it is a habitat. A forest etiquette for hobby hunters.

Editorial Wild beim Wild — 21 January 2023

Tips for nature-friendly behaviour

Whether cyclists, horse riders or hikers: for many people, the forest is a recreational and adventure area. For many plants and animals on the other hand, it is a habitat and place of refuge. IG Wild beim Wild therefore asks hobby hunters to show consideration and offers a forest etiquette with tips for a nature-friendly stay in the outdoors.

Wildlife does not perceive well-behaved people on paths, even in close proximity, as a threat. Hobby hunters should avoid causing unnecessary disturbance and suffering to wildlife. Before taking a shot, hobby hunters must accurately identify the animal and only shoot when they are certain and sober.

When a wild animal, as is often the case, does not fall where shot, the hobby hunter organises a timely tracking search. Whatever the hobby hunter bags, they process themselves or pass on for processing. Under no circumstances should they pass off the carcass as food to non-hunting members of the public.

Wildlife does not belong to hobby hunters

Everyone can enjoy the forest for recreation. We are merely guests in the living room of many wild animals. We should behave accordingly. IG Wild beim Wild advises those seeking recreation to remain on forest paths during hobby hunting activities.

IG Wild beim Wild

The approximately 30’000 hobby hunters in Switzerland should engage in regular further education. Ethical nature lovers have wonderful experiences in nature without executing wildlife.

Wildlife does not belong to hobby hunters (res nullius), but equally to the non-hunting majority of the population. Hobby hunters suffering from notorious hunting fever should not reach for their weapon, but instead seek medical help.

Waste has no place in the forest

Whether cigarette butts, ammunition, alcoholic beverages, abandoned rubbish or bulky waste — waste has no place in the forest and should be taken away by hobby hunters. Even the smallest shards of glass or pieces of wire can pose a mortal danger to forest inhabitants.

You can help all animals and our planet with compassion. Choose compassion on your plate and in your glass. Go vegan.

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