Hunting in LAZIO: Clubs, Laws and Legislation, Communities and Demographics.

Tradition and Nature between Rome and the Apennines Geography and Natural Features Lazio, the region surrounding Rome, offers diverse landscapes for hunting. The Apennines (with peaks like Monte Terminillo, 2,217 m) are home to beech and fir forests, while the hills of Tuscia and Agro Romano are rich in Mediterranean scrub. Volcanic lakes such as Bolsena and Bracciano, along with the Tyrrhenian coast and the Torre Flavia marshes, are key stops for migratory birds. Lazio, home to Rome and vast rural landscapes, offers excellent opportunities for pheasant hunting. 35% of the territory is protected by parks (e.g., Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park; Castelli Romani Park), which coexist with regulated hunting areas. Hunters and Demographics of the Region According to data from the National Hunters Association (Federcaccia), there are approximately 50,000 registered hunters in Lazio. 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 Hunting in Lazio is heavily influenced by the region's terrain and wildlife. Pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) thrive in Lazio’s farmland, riverbanks, and open woodlands. Pheasant hunting is one of the most popular activities, often practiced with the help of tracking dogs, such as the Segugio Italiano. Pheasants roost in woods but feed in fields, making morning and late afternoon the best hunting times. Cornfields, wheat stubble, and wetlands near rivers are prime locations. Types of Hunting and Huntable Species In Lazio, various forms of hunting are practiced: Wild boar hunting: Very popular, practiced throughout the territory. Roe deer hunting: Common in mountainous and hilly areas. Hare and pheasant hunting: Popular in hilly and agricultural areas. Fox hunting: Permitted in some areas but with restrictions. Waterfowl hunting: Ducks and coots in wetlands. The main species are: wild boar, roe deer, hare, pheasant, partridge, fox, duck, and coot. Hunting Seasons in the Region Hunting seasons in Lazio are regulated by regional laws and vary depending on the species. For example: Wild boar hunting: From October to January. Roe deer hunting: From September to December. 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 Lazio, including: Federcaccia Lazio 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. Hunting Regulations in the Region Hunting ban in national parks and Natura 2000 areas. Mandatory use of non-toxic ammunition in wetlands. Annual quotas: 4,000 wild boar and 1,500 deer. Ban on night hunting and the use of electronic calls for birds. Hunting Traditions In Tuscia, the ritual of the "battuta al lume" (now banned) is remembered in local festivals. After hunts, it is traditional to organize meals featuring local dishes such as porchetta and rigatoni alla pajata, accompanied by regional wines like Frascati and Cesanese. Traditional Laziale cuisine features pheasant in dishes like “Fagiano alla Cacciatora” (pheasant hunter’s style). Local hunting festivals celebrate the start of the season with dog trials and shooting competitions. Interesting Facts The Abruzzo National Park is home to the Apennine wolf, a protected species that sometimes causes conflicts with farmers. Lazio is home to the Life SafeCrossing project, aimed at reducing road accidents caused by wildlife. The province of Latina holds the regional record for wood pigeon captures, thanks to its sunflower fields. Hunting in Lazio means discovering a territory rich in history and biodiversity, just a few kilometers from the capital. From the Apennine forests to the coastal marshes, each environment offers unique opportunities, regulated by laws that balance tradition and conservation. It is an authentic experience for those who love nature and respect its rules. #HuntingInLazio #Apennines #WildBoarHunting #PheasantHunting #ItalianTraditions #RoeDeerHunting #WaterfowlHunting #FedercacciaLazio #SustainableHunting #AbruzzoPark #RomanCountryside #HuntingSeasons #TusciaRegion #LazioWildlife #FestaDelCacciatore #Italy