2024-11-11 09:47:00
There are currently numerous autumn hunts across Austria for so-called small game, meaning ducks, pheasants, partridges and hares. None of these animal species need to be reduced; on the contrary, partridges, for example, are particularly threatened on agricultural land. Yesterday one of these hunts near Krensdorf near Mattersburg was documented by VGT animal rights activists. Around 15 shooters and beaters tried to decimate the last remnants of the above animal species. And this in an area that is 95% heavily used agricultural land with very little cover. In total, only two ducks were shot before the hunt was called off. Just 5 years ago, hunters would have been allowed to release numerous animals before the hunt in order to artificially increase the distance. Fortunately, this is already forbidden in Burgenland, but is allowed without restrictions in nearby Lower Austria.
That’s why the referendum is gathering “For a federal hunting law” are currently voting to regulate hunting nationwide. It is difficult to understand why pheasants and ducks in Krensdorf are protected from being released for shooting purposes, while in Lichtenwörth in Lower Austria, 10 km away, this release remains permitted. However, small game hunting is not ecologically justifiable anyway because all affected animal species do not have to be reduced. And it doesn’t comply with animal welfare standards either, as the animals are shot at with lead shot, so that most of the seriously injured people either die in agony after successfully escaping or are retrieved alive by hunting dogs.
VGT chairman DDr. Martin Balluch, proponent of the referendum, said: “These hunts for so-called small game are a completely senseless massacre. The hunters know this very well, which is why they fear cameras like the proverbial devil fears holy water. Yesterday too, the hunters initially tried to drive away the VGT with the help of the police, but fortunately filming on public streets is allowed. That’s why the hunting party actually broke off their activity. It’s better not to hunt at all than to be filmed. The gentlemen and ladies will already know why. It’s time for such unnecessary animal suffering to be banned nationwide! Hence our referendum!”
Press photos (Copyright: VGT.at)
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**Interview with Dr. Anna Feldman, Ecologist and Wildlife Conservationist**
**Interviewer:** Good morning, Dr. Feldman! Thanks for joining us today to discuss the recent autumn hunts in Austria, particularly concerning small game such as hares and partridges.
**Dr. Feldman:** Good morning! It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** We recently learned about a hunt in Lower Austria that raised concerns among animal rights activists. Can you explain the implications of these hunts for local wildlife, especially in heavily agricultural areas?
**Dr. Feldman:** Absolutely. The over-hunting of small game species, particularly in areas dominated by agriculture, can have serious consequences. Species like partridges are already struggling due to habitat loss and fragmentation caused by farming practices. While hunting has traditionally been a way to manage populations, it’s critical to ensure that these practices are sustainable and don’t push vulnerable species closer to extinction.
**Interviewer:** The hunt you mentioned saw very few animals actually taken—only two ducks. Is this indicative of a larger trend regarding the effectiveness of these hunts?
**Dr. Feldman:** Yes, it is quite telling. When hunts result in such low returns, it raises questions about their necessity and effectiveness. The fact that these hunts are conducted in areas with minimal cover for the animals indicates a deeper issue: the habitat is not conducive for sustainable populations. Efforts like set-asides, which create preserved areas for wildlife, have been shown to positively impact species like the European hare by providing safe habitats away from hunting pressures.
**Interviewer:** You noted that in Burgenland, the practice of releasing animals for hunts has been banned. How effective do you believe this legislation is?
**Dr. Feldman:** The ban on releasing animals is a positive step towards sustainable hunting practices. It reduces the artificial inflation of game numbers for hunting purposes, which can disrupt local ecosystems. In Lower Austria, where such practices are still permissible, we continue to see an imbalance that can lead to overexploitation. Complete and enforced regulations across regions are necessary for real change.
**Interviewer:** With the current situation, how can wildlife conservation advocates wisely address hunting practices while also considering farmers’ needs?
**Dr. Feldman:** It’s essential to facilitate dialogue between farmers, hunters, and conservationists. Advocates should promote more integrated land-use strategies that benefit both wildlife and agriculture. Public awareness campaigns can highlight the importance of biodiversity and sustainable practices, while also providing farmers with incentives for preserving wildlife habitats. Collaboration is the key to ensuring that both wildlife and farming communities can thrive together.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Feldman, for your expert insights on this pressing issue. We appreciate your time.
**Dr. Feldman:** Thank you for having me! It’s vital that we all engage in conversations about conserving our natural heritage while addressing current agricultural practices.
