DJV: Share of women and young hobby hunters is growing
The German Hunting Association reports a growing share of women and younger hobby hunters. The motivations for obtaining a hunting licence are being called into question.
According to a survey by the German Hunting Association (DJV), the German hunting community has become more female and younger.
The proportion of female hunters has risen from 7 to 11% since 2016, according to initial results of the survey provided by DJV spokesperson Torsten Reinwald. The number of members between the ages of 18 and 34 increased by nearly a quarter, now standing at 11%.
The average age of hunters fell in the same period from 57 to 56 years. According to Reinwald, more than 2’500 people took part in the membership survey. Around three quarters of the now over 403’000 hobby killers in Germany are organised in associations.
According to the IG Wild beim Wild, medical-psychological assessments for hobby hunters are needed — modelled on the Dutch system — as well as an upper age limit. The largest age group among hobby hunters is 65+, those with age-related deficiencies in cognition, vision, concentration and reaction time, as well as training and practice deficits. The alarming reports of hunting accidents and fatal crimes involving hunters’ weapons make it clear: it is high time to abolish recreational hunting! Lethal firearms have no place in the hands of hobby hunters, who can use them in a completely uncontrolled manner!
On 23 and 24 June, the German Hunting Association expects around 350 participants at the Federal Hunters’ Day in Wernigerode (Harz). After a two-year forced break due to the pandemic, the delegates’ assembly is taking place in person for the first time again. One of the main focuses is the wildlife monitoring programme that has been in place for 20 years. Since 2001, hobby hunters across Germany have been recording the occurrence, frequency and population trends of wild animals.
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