Concerns Over Cyprus’ Training of Hunting Dogs During Wildlife Breeding Period

Serious concerns have been raised in Cyprus over the possible indictment of the country regarding the training of hunting dogs during the breeding period of game and protected species of wildlife. Despite scientific studies showing the negative impacts of this activity on wildlife, Cyprus continues to allow hunting dog training during sensitive breeding periods.

Compared to other European countries, Cyprus stands out as the member state with the longest duration of training excursions for hunting dogs, even during the breeding period of wildlife, especially bird species. In Greece, training areas have been restricted, and in some countries, training of hunting dogs is completely prohibited during the breeding period.

Organized groups, mainly informal traders and trainers of hunting dogs, have been pressuring authorities to expand training areas at a national level. These groups argue for animal welfare while demanding larger areas for training hunting dogs. Some have even staged demonstrations to push their demands, leading to authorities yielding to political pressures.

Recently, these interest groups have organized protests to legalize hunting dog training throughout the country and year-round. Cyprus is the only EU member state where hunting dogs are trained on live game during the breeding period in their natural environment. Despite regulations limiting the number of dogs per license, many individuals flout the rules, leading to undisclosed profits from the trade of hunting dogs.

The training and sale of hunting dogs have become a profitable activity for some, with informal trainers even receiving unemployment benefits. The situation has sparked intense worries among conservationists and wildlife advocates, who fear the long-term impact on Cyprus’s wildlife population. The country now faces scrutiny and potential legal action for its lax regulations on hunting dog training during sensitive breeding periods.