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

Discovering the Wild Boar and Migratory Birds of Lake Trasimeno Geography and Natural Features Umbria, the green heart of Italy, offers ideal landscapes for hunting thanks to its geographic diversity. The region is dominated by the Apennines, with peaks like Monte Vettore (2,476 m), and rolling hills rich in oak, chestnut, and beech forests. The Tiber and Nera rivers, along with Lake Trasimeno, create diverse ecosystems. Umbria, known as the "Green Heart of Italy," is a prime destination for woodcock hunting, wooded areas cover 36% of the territory, hosting wildlife, while the wetlands of Trasimeno are vital for migratory birds. Hunter Demographics Currently, there are approximately 20,000 hunters in Umbria: 12,000 in the province of Perugia and 8,000 in the province of Terni. About 72% are aged between 45 and 65. Most are locals, but the region also attracts hunters from other parts of Italy, especially for wild boar and migratory bird hunting. Characteristics of Hunting in Umbria Hunting in Umbria is heavily influenced by the region's terrain and wildlife. Woodcock hunting is one of the most popular activities, often practiced with the help of tracking dogs such as Setters, Pointers, and Brittany Spaniels. Hunters slowly walk through dense cover, relying on the dog’s ability to locate and flush woodcock. Woodcock are often found near streams, wet meadows, and thick undergrowth. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to find birds feeding. Types of Hunting and Wildlife Large Ungulates: Wild boar (abundant species), deer, fallow deer, and roe deer. Small Game: Hare, pheasant, and red-legged partridge. Migratory Birds: Ducks, coots (in Trasimeno), and wood pigeons. Bird Shooting: Practiced in plains and wetlands. Hunting Seasons The dates follow the national calendar, with regional adaptations: Wild Boar: October to January. Deer and Fallow Deer: September to December (males only). Small Game: October to February. Woodcock: General Season: October 1 – January 31 (Exact dates may vary by year). Migration Peak: November – December (Best hunting period). Associations and Clubs FIDC Umbria: Organizes training courses and manages 20 ATC (Territorial Hunting Areas). ANCI Umbria: Promotes sustainability and hunting culture. Private Reserves: Such as the Monte Subasio Reserve, known for wild boar hunting. Regional Legislation In addition to National Law 157/1992, Umbria imposes: Ban on night hunting and the use of electronic calls. Annual quotas: 2,000 deer and 5,000 wild boar. Hunting Restricted Zones (ZTL): Protected areas where hunting is prohibited. Hunting Traditions Umbria boasts medieval roots: the Wild Boar Festival in Norcia celebrates game meat with traditional recipes. In Todi, the Palio della Bruschetta includes clay pigeon shooting competitions. The "San Martino Hunts" (November) are rituals marking the opening of the hunting season. Woodcock hunting in Umbria is highly respected, with strict adherence to sustainable hunting practices Interesting Facts Lake Trasimeno hosts the largest number of coots in Italy. The Monte Subasio Reserve, established in 1993, is one of the first in Italy for wildlife management. Umbria is a pioneer in hunting ecotourism: packages that combine sustainable hunting and tastings of local products. Hunting in Umbria means immersing oneself in a centuries-old tradition while respecting ecological balances and strict regulations. Among forests, lakes, and hills, the experience is enriched by a passionate community and unforgettable landscapes. #HuntingInUmbria #LakeTrasimeno #WildBoarHunting #WoodcockHunting #ItalianHuntingTraditions #MonteSubasio #MigratoryBirds #Italy #UmbrianWildlife #HuntingSeasons #FIDCUmbria #NorciaFestival #TodiHunts #ApennineHunting #HuntingEcotourism #GreenHeartOfItaly