Hunting in the MARCHE: Clubs, Laws and Legislation, Communities and Demographics.

Hare hunting Guide Geographic and Natural Features of the Region from a Hunting Perspective The Marche region, located in central Italy, is characterized by a great variety of landscapes: mountains, hills, and a narrow coastline. The Apennines offer ideal habitats for wild boar, roe deer, and hares, while the hilly and flat areas are rich in pheasants, partridges, and foxes. The region is also marked by numerous watercourses, such as the Metauro and Tronto rivers, which support waterfowl populations. The forests, predominantly of oak and beech, are particularly suitable for hunting. Hunters and Demographics of the Region Currently, the number of hunters in Marche is estimated to be around 15,000 (last hunting season there were 17,740), practically halved compared to 20 years ago, when there were 26,749 (2011/2012 season), and reduced to a third compared to 30 years ago (1991/1992 season), when there were as many as 46,799, with a steady decline of about 1,000 hunters per year. 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 Marche is heavily influenced by the region's terrain and wildlife. Hunters must adapt their techniques to different environments, from open fields to thick brush. Hare hunting is one of the most popular activities, often practiced with the help of trained dogs, particularly beagles. Waterfowl hunting is limited to specific areas, such as near the Metauro River and Lake Cingoli. Types of Hunting and Wildlife Ungulates: Wild boar (most hunted species), deer, fallow deer, and roe deer. Small Game: Hare, pheasant, partridge, and wild rabbit. Migratory Birds: Quails, turtledoves, and woodcocks (autumn season). Wood Pigeon Hunting: Practiced in post-harvest sunflower fields. Hunting Seasons Wild Boar: October to February (limit of 5 animals per day). Deer and Fallow Deer: September to December (males only, using traps). Small Game: October to January. Migratory Birds: September to December (maximum 20 specimens/day depending on the species). Associations and Clubs FIDC Marche: Manages 18 Territorial Hunting Areas (ATC) and promotes restocking projects. Sibillini Hunters Association: Organizes guided hunts in the Sibillini Mountains. Gola della Rossa Reserve: A protected area with controlled wild boar hunting. Regional Legislation Hunting ban in protected natural areas (e.g., Sibillini Mountains). Mandatory use of non-toxic ammunition in wetlands. Annual quotas: 1,500 deer and 4,000 wild boar. Ban on live decoys for bird hunting. Hunting Traditions The Hunter’s Festival in Acqualagna (April) celebrates the end of the hunting season with game meat tastings. Hare hunting in Marche is a deeply rooted tradition that blends skill, strategy, and respect for the environment In Fermo, the Palio della Civetta includes clay pigeon shooting competitions. Ancient practices like the "wolf hunt" (now banned) survive in local folklore. After hunts, it is traditional to organize meals featuring local dishes such as vincisgrassi (a Marche-style lasagna) and hare stew, accompanied by regional wines like Verdicchio and Rosso Conero. Interesting Facts Monte Conero is the only place in Italy where mountain pheasant hunting is practiced. Marche is home to some of the highest hare populations in central Italy, thanks to its balanced ecosystem. Marche has introduced the "electronic hunting card" to monitor catches in real time. The Sibillini Mountains National Park hosts the Life Wolfalps project to promote coexistence between wolves and human activities. Hunting in Marche combines a passion for the land with respect for the rules. From the Apennine forests to the coastal salt marshes, each environment offers unique challenges, supported by a community being attentive to conservation. It is an authentic experience, enriched by breathtaking landscapes and traditions. #HuntingInMarche #HareHunting #ItalianHuntingTraditions #WildBoarHunting #SibilliniMountains #ApennineHunting #WaterfowlHunting #FIDCMarche #Italy #MonteConero #MarcheWildlife #HuntingSeasons #RegionalHuntingLaws #GameMeatTraditions #LifeWolfalps #NatureAndCulture