Hunting in FRIULI-VENEZIA GIULIA: Clubs and Community, Legislation and Hunter Seasons.

Waterfowl Hunting Geographic and Natural Features of the Region from a Hunting Perspective Friuli-Venezia Giulia, located in northeastern Italy, is characterized by a great variety of landscapes: mountains, hills, plains, and a short coastline. The Carnic and Julian Alps offer ideal habitats for deer, roe deer, chamois, and ibex, while the plains and hilly areas are rich in hares, pheasants, and foxes. The region is also marked by numerous watercourses, such as the Tagliamento and Isonzo rivers, which support waterfowl populations. Friuli Venezia Giulia is a prime waterfowl hunting destination in Italy, thanks to its wetlands, coastal lagoons, and river valleys that attract a diverse range of migratory birds. With its strategic location in northeastern Italy, the region serves as an important stopover for waterfowl traveling along the Adriatic Flyway. The forests of spruce and beech are particularly suitable for hunting. Hunters and Demographics of the Region According to data from the National Hunters Association (Federcaccia), there are approximately 10,000 registered hunters in Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Most hunters are men aged between 40 and 70, with a strong presence in rural and mountainous areas. Hunting is a traditional activity deeply rooted in the local culture. Characteristics of Hunting Waterfowl hunting is limited to specific areas, such as near the Tagliamento River and the Grado Lagoon. Decoy Hunting (Caccia con richiami) – The most popular method, using floating decoys and duck calls to attract birds. Hunters typically set up in marsh blinds or floating hides. Pass Shooting (Tiro di passo) – Effective in river valleys and wetland corridors, where birds travel between feeding and resting areas. Boat Hunting – Allowed in specific areas of the Laguna di Marano e Grado, where hunters use camouflaged boats to move through shallow waters.Types of Hunting in the Region. Huntable Species In Friuli-Venezia Giulia, various forms of hunting are practiced: Deer and roe deer hunting: Very popular, practiced throughout the territory. Chamois and ibex hunting: Common in mountainous areas. Hare and pheasant hunting: Popular in hilly and agricultural areas. Fox hunting: Permitted in some areas but with restrictions. Waterfowl hunting: Ducks, mallards, Eurasian Teal, Northern Pintail, Greylag Goose in wetlands. The main species are: deer, roe deer, chamois, ibex, hare, pheasant, fox, duck, and coot. Hunting Seasons in the Region Hunting seasons in Friuli-Venezia Giulia are regulated by regional laws and vary depending on the species. For example: Deer and roe deer hunting: From September to December. Chamois and ibex hunting: From September to November. Hare and pheasant hunting: From the third Sunday of September to the end of December. Fox hunting: Permitted only during specific periods and with special authorizations. Waterfowl hunting: From the third Sunday of September to the end of January. Exact dates may change each year, so it is essential to consult the regional hunting calendar. Hunting Associations and Clubs in the Region Numerous hunting associations operate in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, including: Federcaccia Friuli-Venezia Giulia Arcicaccia Libera Caccia These organizations promote environmental protection, hunter training, and the preservation of hunting traditions. They also organize shooting competitions and events for members. Regional Legislation Hunting ban in Natura 2000 areas and parks (e.g., Prealpi Giulie). Mandatory use of non-toxic ammunition in lagoons. Annual quotas: 3,000 deer, 2,000 chamois, and 5,000 wild boar. Ban on night hunting and the use of live decoys for birds. Hunting Traditions The Wild Boar Festival in Tarcento (November) celebrates game meat with dishes like "wild boar strudel." In Cormons, the Badger Hunt (now symbolic) is accompanied by traditional songs. In the Natisone Valleys, the "hare shooting" tradition with tracking dogs dates back to the Middle Ages. Interesting Facts The Marano and Grado Lagoons are among the most important wetlands in Europe for bird migration. The Eurasian teal is the most commonly harvested migratory duck in the region. Friuli-Venezia Giulia holds the Italian record for the highest density of private hunting reserves per square kilometer. The Julian Alps chamois was saved from extinction thanks to reintroduction programs in the 1990s. Hunting in Friuli-Venezia Giulia means immersing oneself in a borderland where nature and culture merge. From the Alps to the lagoons, each environment offers unique opportunities, regulated by laws that balance tradition and conservation. It is an authentic experience for those who respect wildlife and seek untouched challenges. #HuntingInFriuliVenezia Giulia #WaterfowlHunting #AdriaticFlyway #DuckHunting #ChamoisHunting #IbexHunting #DeerHunting #RoeDeerHunting #WildBoarHunting #SustainableHunting #HuntingTraditions #MaranoLagoon #GradoLagoon #HuntingSeason #WildlifeConservation #Italy