Marc Reiter explained that the aim is to prepare and protect the country’s forests. He said that when animal populations grow too large, they damage vegetation, meaning that regulating wildlife numbers is necessary, which can ultimately only be achieved through hunting. In his view, hunters are performing a service for nature.
He described the current hunting season, which runs until the end of January, as broadly normal. Reiter explained that, early on, the forests remained unusually green, which made the work more difficult, but by the end of the season hunters should reach standard cull figures: around 6,000 roe deer, 1,000 red deer, and 7,000 to 8,000 wild boar.
He noted that these targets cannot be met without organised drive hunts, known as ‘battue’.
Reiter also emphasised that climate change is now a constant factor shaping hunters’ work, adding that forests lose their foliage much later, and that animals find enough food for longer, which increases their numbers. In light of this, he rejected claims that hunters feed wildlife to make shooting easier, saying that feeding is not practised and is, in any case, prohibited.
Within the forest and wildlife roundtable, he said there is broad agreement on allowing hunting at night, which represents a longstanding demand from the FSHCL.
Since wild boar are mainly nocturnal, being able to hunt after dark would make hunters significantly more effective, Reiter said.
Any change, however, requires legal amendments, he said. Reiter acknowledged that the legislative process can take time, but expressed confidence that Environment Minister Serge Wilmes will move the issue forward.
On questions of safety, the FSHCL places great emphasis on careful training and strict rules, Reiter said. He emphasised that safety is a priority during the education of new hunters, and that the FSHCL regularly reminds members of essential precautions.
Alcohol, drugs and certain medications are strictly off-limits during hunts, he stressed, adding that the same principles apply to firearms as to driving. The FSHCL supports this approach, even though it does not conduct its own substance tests, Reiter said.
Accidents involving wildlife do occur, particularly during hunting season, but this year has been no different from previous ones, Reiter said. He stressed the need to remind motorists to slow down when hunts are signposted, and ideally to drive more carefully during this season anyway, as animals are especially active at dawn and dusk.
The FSHCL is also in discussions with the government to improve the visibility of hunt signage, Reiter said.
He added that drivers should never try to swerve if an animal appears on the road. Instead, he said, they should brake and keep the steering wheel straight. If an animal is hit, people should not attempt to handle the situation themselves, he warned, as an injured animal defending itself can be dangerous. Reiter explained that the correct response is to call the police.
Reiter acknowledged that hunting is not only a service but also a source of pleasure for those who enjoy spending full days outdoors. He stressed that it is also a time-consuming activity, as hunters must maintain their districts and care for infrastructure and nature throughout the year.
Reiter also said that game meat belongs on the table all year round, not just in autumn and winter. He explained that joint campaigns with the Ministry of Agriculture and with chef and influencer Anne Faber have been successful in encouraging the public to cook with game.
