Sindh Lifts Ban on Bird Hunting

The Sindh Wildlife Department has lifted a four-month hunting ban, opening the hunting season from November 3, 2024, to February 28, 2025, as reported by Express News.

Under the new guidelines, hunting will be permitted only on Saturdays and Sundays, with approved shotguns and in designated zones. The Wildlife Department’s notification specifies that hunting will take place during the non-breeding season, ensuring no nesting birds or young are present and requires prior authorization from relevant authorities.

The season officially begins on November 3, 2024, and ends at sunset on February 28, 2025, with hunters required to follow regulations on the use of approved shotguns. The notification also designates certain areas as off-limits, including Kirthar National Park, wildlife sanctuaries, and cantonments.

To ensure compliance, a wildlife emergency will be in effect throughout the season, with department staff patrolling designated areas and coordinating with police, rangers, and other law enforcement agencies. Chief Conservator Javed Mehr emphasized that, for transparency and regulatory enforcement, law enforcement agencies, magistrates, and local councils have been empowered to inspect hunting permits and enforce bag limits.

According to the notification, hunters must obtain a permit, which allows a maximum of 10 partridges and 15 ducks per license. Deputy Conservator Mumtaz Soomro stated that both local and international hunters can acquire permits for a fee of $100. Soomro added that field officers, inspectors, and wildlife watchers will conduct regular patrols to monitor compliance. This regulation, which aligns with international wildlife management practices, ensures hunting occurs outside the breeding season.

Sindh’s mild climate hosts over 380 bird species, including brown and black partridges and various waterfowl, making it a prominent region for regulated game bird hunting in accordance with international standards.