THENational Free Hunting Association has made known its point of view on the hunting of the wild turtledove and the ambiguous attitude of the Ministry of the Environment. The latter advised against the Italian regions pre-opening as far as this species is concerned. In accordance with the provisions of the second paragraph of article 18 of the Law 157 of 1992, the pre-opening to the turtle dove (two days in September with daily and annual quota bags) has been a widespread practice for years and respects the principles of management and sustainability that are indicated by national and EU law.
Libera Caccia then brought back some publications that demonstrate an increasing or stable trend in the period in which the species was hunted, even in pre-opening. The reasons for hunting are different. For example, the species is considered to be increasing as a breeding population in Italy according to the publication of the LIPU extension (Italian Bird Protection League).
In addition, hunting mainly affects individuals who were born in Italy and our country is only interested marginally from the western European migratory route (the one where the most marked demographic decline of the species is observed according to the continental action plan). The schedule it should be used by all regions wishing to authorize the collection.