Hunting in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland: geography, types of hunting and hunting animals, hunting seasons and legislation in the region Geographical and natural features of the region County Fermanagh is famous for its lakes, rivers and marshes, which create ideal habitat for waterfowl. The central place is occupied by the Lough Erne lake system, consisting of the Upper and Lower Lakes connected by the Ern River. This region is rich in vegetation, including reed beds and moist meadows, which makes it attractive for game species such as teal and wigeon. Lough Erne is a key place for bird migration, especially in autumn and winter. Thousands of wild ducks and geese stay here for the winter, which makes the lake a real paradise for waterfowl hunters. Hunters and demographics of the region Hunting in County Fermanagh has a long tradition, and the locals actively support this type of activity. It is estimated that there are about 1,500 active hunters in the region, making up a significant portion of the population. Most of them are men between the ages of 30 and 60, although in recent years there has been an increase in interest in hunting among young people and women. Hunters in Fermanagh are united in several clubs and associations that organize hunting, nature conservation and training for beginners. Among them, the Fermanagh Wildfowlers Association and the Lough Erne Wildfowling Club stand out, which actively cooperate with local authorities to preserve natural resources. Hunting features in County Fermanagh Hunting in this region has its own unique features related to geography and traditions. The main features include: 1. Waterfowl hunting: Lough Erne is the main hunting spot for teal and wigeon. These birds arrive here in autumn and stay until spring, giving hunters the opportunity to enjoy their hobby throughout the season. 2. Using boats: Many hunters prefer to hunt from boats, which allows them to reach hard-to-reach places on the lake. 3. Helper dogs: The use of hunting dogs is popular in the region, especially retrievers, which help to find and bring the shot game. Types of hunting and hunting animals in the region 1. Hunting for waterfowl: Teal, pintail, mallard, geese. 2. Hunting small game: Hare, hare, rabbit. 3. Big game hunting: Deer (red deer and roe deer). Lough Erne is especially known as a place for hunting teal and pintail. These birds have a high flight speed, which makes hunting them especially adventurous. Hunting seasons in the region - Waterfowl: from September 1 to January 31. - Rusak hare: from October 1 to January 31. - Deer: from August 1 to April 30 (depending on the species). Associations and clubs of hunters - Fermanagh Wildfowlers Association: Engaged in the protection of wetlands and the organization of hunting for Lough Erne. - Lough Erne Wildfowling Club: Conducts training for beginners and organizes joint hunts. - Ulster Federation of Wildfowling Clubs: Coordinates the activities of hunting clubs throughout Northern Ireland. Regional regulations on hunting in County Fermanagh - Availability of a hunting license. - Observance of hunting seasons. - A ban on the use of certain types of weapons and hunting methods. - Mandatory participation in nature conservation programs. National hunting traditions of the region County Fermanagh Hunting in County Fermanagh has deep roots and is part of the local culture. Traditionally, hunters gather in clubs to discuss their successes and share their experiences. Of particular importance is hunting for Lough Erne, which is considered not only a sport, but also a way to keep in touch with nature. An entertaining encyclopedia of local hunting in County Fermanagh 1. Lough Erne is one of the few places in Europe where mass migrations of teal and pintail can be observed. 2. The region hosts annual waterfowl hunting competitions, which attract participants from all over the country. 3. Local hunters are actively involved in programs to restore game populations, which makes hunting in County Fermanagh sustainable and environmentally responsible. #FermanaghHunting #NorthernIrelandHunting #LoughErne #TealHunting #WigeonHunting #PintailHunting #MallardHunting #DeerHunting #HareHunting #RabbitHunting #FermanaghWildfowlers #LoughErneWildfowling #UlsterFederation #WildlifeConservation #WaterfowlMigration #HuntingCompetitions
15