Hunting Terrain in BÉJA: Clubs and Communities, Laws and Legislation, Hunting Practicies in Tunisia

Landscape and Environmental Profile in Béja The Béja region, situated in northwestern Tunisia, is characterized by fertile plains, gentle hills, and extensive agricultural zones, making it one of the country’s richest areas in terms of biodiversity. The climate is typically Mediterranean, with relatively high rainfall compared to other parts of Tunisia, which in turn supports dense vegetation and consistent food sources for wildlife. Forested areas around Nefza and mountainous zones near Djebel Serj offer suitable habitats for large and small game alike. These conditions have made Béja an important hunting ground, particularly for wild boar and native game birds that thrive in dense woodland and transitional farmland zones. Hunter Population and Local Engagement in Tunisia Although official figures on the number of hunters in Béja are not publicly disaggregated, the region remains a significant hub for the Tunisian hunting community. Its proximity to fertile ecosystems and its accessibility from larger urban centers like Tunis and Jendouba make it attractive for both local residents and seasonal visitors. Many rural inhabitants maintain hunting as a traditional pastime, often participating in group hunts organized through community networks. Field Practices and Hunting Techniques in the Region Hunting in Béja follows established Tunisian norms, centered around the legal use of shotguns and often involving the assistance of trained dogs. In the rugged forested tracts, wild boar hunting is the dominant pursuit, commonly conducted through beat hunts where animals are driven toward waiting hunters. Bird hunting is prevalent in the open fields and olive plantations, where partridge, thrush, and starling species are most commonly pursued. Hunters rely on generational knowledge of animal behavior and movement, with many adjusting their strategies based on weather, crop cycles, and local feeding grounds. The use of improvised hides and calls remains a typical part of the practice, especially in avian hunts. Wild Species and Game Distribution in the Area The fauna of Béja is diverse and well-supported by its humid ecosystem. Wild boars are widespread and often cause damage to agricultural lands, making them both a target of sport and population control. Hares are found in the low hills and cereal fields, while birdlife—particularly the Barbary partridge, European thrushes, and migratory starlings—represents the most common focus for upland hunting. The interspersed terrain of wheat fields, forests, and grazing lands allows these species to co-exist in a dynamic habitat. Predator species such as foxes also inhabit the region but are hunted less frequently due to both legal constraints and shifting hunter priorities. Seasonal Timing and Access Windows in Béja The national hunting calendar defines the legal seasons in Béja, as in all Tunisian regions. Wild boar hunting opens in early October and extends through late January, aligning with the animals' seasonal movement patterns and breeding cycle. Bird hunting season, particularly for migratory species like thrushes, typically runs from December through February, with hunting legally allowed only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. These regulations are in place to prevent overhunting and ensure that populations regenerate. Organized Networks and Local Institutions Béja benefits from a range of hunting associations that are either directly active in the region or operate in nearby governorates with overlapping influence. These organizations facilitate regulated hunts, distribute licenses, and often liaise with forestry services to address conservation concerns. While the presence of formal private hunting clubs is limited, state-supervised collective hunts are frequently coordinated, especially for wild boar management. Legal Codes and Regulatory Framework Hunting activity in Béja, like elsewhere in Tunisia, is governed by the Forest Code of 1988. This legislation mandates that all hunters obtain a license, limits permissible weaponry to shotguns, and identifies both protected areas and protected species. Enforcement is managed by forestry agents and local law enforcement, who are authorized to check permits, inspect firearms, and monitor hunting behavior. Prohibited practices such as night hunting, the use of traps, or unlicensed firearm possession are subject to legal penalties. Cultural Perspective and Rural Traditions Hunting has long played a role in the rural culture of Béja, deeply integrated into the seasonal rhythms of life in the countryside. In many villages, hunting is not just sport but also a form of food acquisition, particularly during the colder months. Fathers pass knowledge and technique to sons, preserving the oral heritage of tracking, concealment, and marksmanship. While modern legislation has narrowed the scope of permissible activity, traditional practices such as group boar hunts, communal meat-sharing, and rural feasts featuring game meat persist in many communities. The practice remains a strong cultural marker of rural identity. Unique Observations and Field Realities Béja offers a unique combination of agricultural abundance and wild terrain, where it’s not uncommon to find wild boar trails cutting through wheat fields or partridge roosting in olive groves. The interplay between farming and hunting is especially visible during harvest season, when game activity increases and hunting efforts intensify. Forested hills around Ain Draham and Nefza often serve as unofficial meeting points for seasoned hunters, and the regional wildlife’s resilience continues to draw attention even beyond Tunisia. These field realities give Béja a reputation as both a practical and challenging environment for serious hunters.