Hunting Season Kicks Off in Northern Cyprus: Ministry of Agriculture Issues Fire Warning

The “small game” hunting season has officially begun in Northern Cyprus. The Ministry of Agriculture has issued a strong warning to hunters due to the high risk of forest fires across the region.

The hunting season in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) started last Sunday. In September, there are four designated hunting days: the 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd.

On July 31, the Council of Ministers approved the regulations for the 2024-2025 hunting season, detailing specific hunting days and permit requirements. These regulations came into effect and were published in the Official Gazette on August 7.

According to these rules, the “Big Game” hunting season will include 12 hunting days: November 3, 10, 17, and 24; December 1, 8, 15, 22, 25, and 29 in 2024; and January 1 and 5 in 2025.

As the hunting season kicks off, the Ministry of Agriculture has reminded the public about essential fire safety guidelines due to the persistent threat of wildfires.

According to information from the Meteorology Department, even though temperatures have dropped, there is still a significant risk of forest fires.

The Ministry's statement emphasized that everyone venturing into forested areas or using forest roads needs to be particularly careful, especially in hunting zones where dry grass can easily ignite.

Additionally, the Ministry reminded everyone that starting fires in forests is strictly prohibited until October 31. Hunters are urged to avoid any activities that could spark a fire, such as smoking or heating food.

The ban on lighting fires, even in designated picnic areas, will remain in place until further notice.