The NAPLES Region: Clubs, Laws and Legislation, Communities and Demographics.

A Paradise for Partridge Hunters The Naples region, located in the Campania area of southern Italy, offers a unique hunting experience thanks to its diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and deep-rooted hunting traditions. From the slopes of Mount Vesuvius to the wetlands of the Sele River, this region provides a variety of hunting opportunities. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about hunting in the Naples region, including its geographical features, hunting regulations, traditions, and more. Geographical and Natural Features for Hunting The Naples region is characterized by a mix of landscapes, making it a versatile hunting destination: Mountains: The slopes of Mount Vesuvius and the Picentini Mountains are home to wild boar, roe deer, and hares. Hills and Plains: These areas are rich in pheasants, partridges, and foxes. Coastal Areas: The Tyrrhenian coastline and wetlands, such as the Sele River and Lake Conza, attract waterfowl like ducks and coots. Mediterranean Scrubland: This habitat supports a wide range of wildlife, including small game and birds. Hunters and Demographics According to data from the National Hunters Association (Federcaccia), there are approximately 35,000 registered hunters in the Campania region, many of whom are active in the Naples area. Most hunters are men aged between 40 and 70, with a strong presence in rural and mountainous areas. Hunting is a deeply rooted tradition in the region, reflecting its cultural heritage. Hunting Characteristics The diverse terrain of the Naples region requires different hunting techniques: Mountain Hunting: Wild boar hunting with hounds is popular in areas like Mount Vesuvius and the Picentini Mountains. Hill Hunting: Fixed-position hunting for pheasants and partridges is common in hilly and agricultural areas. Coastal Hunting: Waterfowl hunting is practiced in wetlands, though it is restricted in protected areas. Types of Hunting and Game Species The Naples region offers a variety of hunting experiences: Wild Boar Hunting: Widely practiced across the region, especially in mountainous areas. Partridge: The Naples region, located in the Campania area of southern Italy, is a fantastic destination for partridge hunting. The primary partridge species found in the Naples region are: Red-Legged Partridge (Alectoris rufa): Known for its distinctive red legs and beak, this species is common in hilly and agricultural areas. Gray Partridge (Perdix perdix): Less common but still present in some areas, particularly in open fields. Partridge hunting in the Naples region is typically practiced using the following methods: Driven Hunts: Organized hunts where beaters flush partridges toward hunters positioned in fixed spots. Walking Hunts: Hunters walk through fields and scrubland with trained dogs to flush out partridges. Pointing Dogs: Breeds like the Bracco Italiano or English Pointer are commonly used to locate and point partridges. Best Locations for Partridge Hunting: Mount Vesuvius Area, Picentini Mountains, Sele River Plains. Roe Deer Hunting: Common in forested and hilly zones. Hare and Pheasant Hunting: Popular in agricultural and hilly areas. Fox Hunting: Allowed in specific areas with restrictions. Waterfowl Hunting: Ducks and coots are hunted in wetlands like the Sele River and Lake Conza. The main game species include: wild boar, roe deer, hare, pheasant, partridge, fox, duck, and coot. Hunting Seasons Hunting seasons in the Naples region are regulated by regional laws and vary by species. Key periods include: Wild Boar: October to January. Roe Deer: September to December. Hare and Pheasant: Third Sunday of September to late December. Fox: Allowed only during specific periods with special permits. Waterfowl: Third Sunday of September to late January. Exact dates may change annually, so hunters should consult the regional hunting calendar. Hunting Associations and Clubs Several hunting associations operate in the Naples region, including Federcaccia Campania, Arcicaccia, and Libera Caccia. These organizations promote environmental conservation, hunter education, and the preservation of hunting traditions. They also organize events and shooting competitions for members. Hunting Regulations Key regulations in the Naples region include: Prohibition of Hunting in National Parks: Hunting is banned in protected areas like Vesuvius National Park and Cilento National Park. Non-Toxic Ammunition: Required in wetlands to protect the environment. Annual Quotas: For example, 3,000 wild boars and 500 roe deer. Prohibition of Night Hunting: The use of electronic bird calls is also banned. Hunting Traditions Hunting in the Naples region is deeply tied to local culture and traditions: Sagra del Cinghiale (Wild Boar Festival): Held in Montella in November, this festival celebrates wild boar dishes like "sausage with fennel." Cilento Traditions: The ritual of "battuta al lume di candela" (hunting by candlelight), now banned, is remembered in local festivals. Gift of the Prey: It is customary for hunters to offer a portion of their catch to the landowner as a gesture of gratitude. Interesting Facts Appennine Wolf: The Cilento National Park is home to the protected Appennine wolf, which is monitored to prevent conflicts with livestock. Griffon Vulture Sighting: In 2022, a griffon vulture was spotted in the mountainous areas, signaling improved ecosystem health. Hunting in the Naples region offers a unique blend of tradition, adventure, and respect for nature. With its diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and strong hunting culture, the region provides an authentic experience for hunters. #HuntingInNaples #PartridgeHunting #CampaniaWildlife #MountVesuvius #ItalianHuntingTraditions #FedercacciaCampania #Italy #WildBoarHunting #WaterfowlHunting #HuntingSeasons #MediterraneanHunting #GameMeatFestivals #AntiPoachingEfforts #AppennineWo