Access mode
The Lombardy Region has recently promulgated a resolution that allows the derogation of the collection of Chaffinch and StarlingThis news has generated satisfaction in the hunting community, although it has raised debate and concerns regarding the access procedures. The harvest of these species, not included in the list of huntable species, is authorized only under certain essential conditions and with rather complex mechanisms. Hunters must undergo specific procedures and record their harvests daily on a dedicated online platform. While these mechanisms may seem complex, they are considered mandatory to ensure the validity of the decision, especially in the event of an appeal and defense before the Regional Administrative Court (TAR).
The controversy
One of the main controversies in the hunting world concerns the fact that this derogation is only permitted to hunters from fixed hides, excluding stalking. Some councilors, such as Carlo Bravo, have accused the regional president of Federcaccia of having suggested this restriction.
Solid motivations
However, the decision to limit the exemption to huts is based on several solid reasons, necessary to ensure the compliance and defensible nature of the resolution:
Strict Control of Harvesting: The legislation requires extremely rigorous control of harvesting. Hunting from hides, being georeferenced, allows for effective and timely monitoring, something that would be impossible with roaming hunts.
Habitat Conservation: The resolution recognizes that mountain huts, particularly in Alpine regions and even in lowland areas, contribute to habitat conservation and redevelopment. In an increasingly depopulated and abandoned mountain environment, the presence of a mountain hut implies land management and care, a topic of great concern to the European Community.
Hunter Specialization: The blind hunter often specializes in small-scale migratory birds. This specialization allows him to more accurately determine the species he's harvesting (starling or finch), reducing the risk of confusion with other animals.
Protection of Traditions: The resolution aims to protect hunting traditions. Hunting small migratory birds from hides is a historic and well-established practice, unlike "shooting left and right wherever you are." While this may seem restrictive, it's crucial to remember that this is an exception to the law, not a standard practice.
A robust and defensible resolution
The request to limit the harvest to fixed hides only was made by the Lombardy Region during the meeting with hunting associations. Most associations present, including Federcaccia, accepted this suggestion, recognizing the need for a robust and defensible resolution. The goal is to ensure that the exemption, albeit limited, can be effectively implemented without risk of revocation (Source: Federcaccia Lombardia).




































