The Forestry Department said that the hunting season, including wood pigeon hunting, starts on Sunday, August 25.
The Wood Pigeon, also known as Vityuten, is the largest wood pigeon in Europe. The male's voice is low and muffled; often the cooing of the wood pigeon frightens travelers in the forest. This bird loves berries, fruits, nuts, flowers, and buds. The Wood Pigeon compares favorably with its fellows in that it avoids landfills and garbage dumps.
In this regard, the department urges hunters to exercise extreme caution when hiking in rural and forested areas, avoiding any actions that could lead to a fire. This includes prohibiting lighting a fire for any reason and not throwing lit cigarette butts or matches, as current weather conditions are conducive to the rapid start and spread of fire.
The Department would like to remind you that discarding empty cartridges constitutes serious pollution and is prohibited by the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act. Hunters are encouraged to collect spent shell casings.
Lighting fires in forests and rural areas is strictly prohibited. Violation of this rule may result in a prison sentence of up to ten years, a fine of up to €50,000, or both. Fires are permitted only on specially equipped grills at picnic areas approved by the Forestry Department.
The agency emphasizes that the consequences of fires can be catastrophic. Anyone who notices smoke or fire in or near the forest should immediately report it to 1407 (Forestry Department) or 112 (Fire Service).
Source: reporter.com.cy
