The threat of African swine fever has been ringing alarm bells since 2014. In order to diminish levels of risk, appeals were made to reduce animal population density within the country.
However, the density has once again exceeded recommended levels, according to Laurent Schley of the Nature Conservation Agency ANF. Schley explained that statistics showing how many wild boars are shot in each square kilometre reveal a startlingly high number. In terms of the density of the boars, he added that we can be sure that the real density is much more significant.
However, the authorities were clear in dismissing claims insisting that it is, at present, impossible to bring down the wild boar population.
Hunters are allowed to operate throughout the country, as long as they stay outside of the woods, or alternatively, within controlled areas within in the forest.
Driven hunts – without dogs – are also authorised. Minister of Agriculture Roman Schneider reiterated the initial call for additional hunting on Tuesday morning, following what seems to be a successful 2018.
In the cordoned off zone between the Belgian and Luxembourgish fence, hunters should direct efforts predominantly towards wild boar. Schneider is currently drafting a formal plan to curtail numbers to be put in to action by mid-May, between Linger and Grass, once the fence has been erected.
African swine fever: Nine-kilometre fence to be complete by mid-May
Opinion - Martin Jonsson: More clarity is needed on hunting in Luxembourg
