The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced that the hunting season will begin on February 15 and continue until March 15. Authorities have introduced strict rules to ensure wildlife protection and responsible hunting practices across the province.
According to officials, hunting will only be allowed on Saturdays and Sundays during the approved period. Hunters must carry a valid shooting license, which costs PKR 6,000. Each licensed hunter may hunt up to 5 birds per day. The government has made it clear that anyone found violating these rules will face legal action.
The use of electronic calling devices, including MP3 players and other sound systems used to attract birds, has been strictly banned. Wildlife officials say such devices disturb natural habitats and give hunters an unfair advantage. Special monitoring teams will oversee activities to ensure compliance with regulations.
Certain regions have been declared completely protected, and no hunting will be allowed there. These include Lower and Upper Chitral, Shandur Lake, Broghil, and Tor Khos. These areas are known for their rich biodiversity and sensitive ecosystems.
In addition to regular hunting, trophy hunts are regulated under the Community Based Trophy Hunting Program. A recent example is the Kashmiri markhor hunt, which generated significant revenue. Under this program, a large share of the income is directed toward local community welfare and wildlife conservation efforts.
Officials say the aim is to strike a balance between controlled hunting and the long term protection of wildlife in the province.
