Canton of Bern wants to protect wildlife from disturbances
The canton of Bern is tightening the protection of wildlife through new rules governing leisure and tourism activities.
As of 1 December 2024, new rules apply in the wildlife protection zones of the canton of Bern to wildlife from disturbances.
The rules include designated path and route requirements as well as a mandatory leash rule. The aim is to reduce disturbances to wildlife caused by leisure, sport and tourism activities during particularly sensitive periods. This applies in particular to snowshoeing and ski touring off official routes or through undisturbed wildlife habitats. In spring, the rules affect dogs off the leash: the mandatory leash requirement prevents dogs from chasing wildlife during the period when animals are giving birth to their young. The provisions are defined specifically for each wildlife protection zone. They remain in force until the breeding and rearing season in spring or summer. Wildlife wardens carry out checks in the areas.
Undisturbed zones promote survival
Undisturbed zones have a positive effect on wildlife and can be crucial to the survival of a species. Moreover, wildlife protection zones with minimal disturbance contribute significantly to reducing wildlife damage to forests.
The protection provisions for the individual wildlife protection zones can be found in the Geoportal of the canton of Bern and in Annex 2 of the Ordinance of 26 February 2003 on wildlife protection.
Mandatory leash rule in several areas
This mandatory leash rule applies in the canton of Bern, for example, on the slopes of the Niesen (from 1 December to the end of July). According to the newspaper, dogs are no longer permitted to roam freely at all between Kleinhöchstetten and Jaberg. In the Könizerwald, the mandatory leash rule applies between April and July 2025.
The municipalities are responsible for implementation and may erect local signage. Dog owners must pay attention to information signs, as violations can be penalised.
Information on behavior in wildlife reserves and for tour planning:
Website Snow Sports with Consideration – Respect Your Limits
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