Fribourg: More wildlife rest zones planned from 2025
The canton of Fribourg is opening a consultation on an amendment to the ordinance on wildlife rest zones. This amendment envisages an expansion of the La Berra wildlife rest zone as well as the introduction of 14 new rest zones, primarily in already protected mountain areas. The aim of this revision is to channel and minimise disturbances to wildlife.
In recent decades, recreational activities in nature have increased significantly. Hiking, climbing and mountaineering have been joined by, among others, skydiving, via ferratas, trails, nature excursions, ski touring and wildlife photography. While these activities benefit people, they can disturb wildlife, particularly during certain times of year such as winter.
To channel these activities and minimise their impact on animals, the canton of Fribourg has opened a consultation on an amendment to the ordinance on wildlife rest zones, running from 15 October 2024 to 31 January 2025. This draft proposes expanding the canton's currently sole wildlife rest zone, La Berra, and introducing an additional 14 new rest zones. The latter primarily concern already protected areas such as the Dents-Vertes, Raveires and Dent-du-Chamois wildlife sanctuaries, as well as the federal hunting reserves Hochmatt-Motélon and Dent-de-Lys.
The measures provided for in the amendment to the ordinance prescribe in particular restrictions during the closed seasons, depending on the zone and the animal species concerned. For example, it will be mandatory for the public to use official routes during the designated closed seasons, to keep dogs on a leash; or it will be prohibited to “stay” outside the designated areas. Agriculture and forestry will not be affected by the measures. Hunting within wildlife rest zones during the protected periods is generally prohibited. Hobby hunters may pass through the rest zones with unloaded weapons, but without leaving the official routes.
The new ordinance is planned to enter into force on 1 July 2025. The Canton of Fribourg thereby fulfils federal legislation on the protection of wildlife (Art. 1 para. 1 and Art. 7 para. 4 JSG; Art. 4ter JSV) as well as the cantonal biodiversity strategy, and follows the path already taken by other alpine and pre-alpine cantons.
Further information:
Report on the amendment of the ordinance on wildlife rest zones
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