Lombardy's Hunting Seasons: Dates, Zones and Tuscan-Style Culling Methods

The Lombardy region, with its diverse ecosystems stretching from the Alpine peaks to the fertile plains of the Po Valley, offers a wide range of hunting opportunities governed by precise seasonal regulations. The official 2024–2025 hunting season runs from September 15 through January 31, though specific rules and dates vary significantly depending on species, terrain, and district. Regulation and Hunting Periods in Lombardy Hunting periods in Lombardy are carefully structured to align with wildlife behavior and ecological conservation goals. Small game such as hare and pheasant can be hunted starting from September 15, while rock partridge season in alpine zones opens earlier, on September 1. Wild boar hunting varies by district, with Milan closing on December 31 and Bergamo continuing until January 31 for population control. Waterfowl like woodcock can be hunted from October 1 to December 31, while wood pigeon season ends on November 30. Mountainous areas follow unique schedules due to early winter conditions, altitude-specific breeding cycles, and migratory patterns. Compared to neighboring regions, Lombardy has stricter wild boar management but more lenient small game seasons than Swiss border cantons. Recent reforms include mandatory electronic tagging for all harvested wild boars and reduced bag limits for thrushes to protect migratory bird populations. Hunting Calendar by Species in Lombardy Each species has a defined open season. Hare and pheasant can be hunted from September 15 to January 31, while rock partridge is only available in alpine areas from September 1 to November 30. Wild boar seasons depend on the district, with Milan allowing hunting until December 31 and Bergamo until January 31. Woodcock can be pursued from October 1 to December 31, wood pigeon from October 1 to November 30, and corvids under controlled plans from February 1 to March 31 with special authorization. These variations allow hunters to plan according to their target species and location within the region’s 47 ATS (Ambiti Territoriali di Caccia). Protected Species and Restrictions in Lombardy Strict protections apply to many native species including all raptors like golden eagle and goshawk, storks, marmots, and other alpine fauna. As of 2024, new protections extend to hedgehogs, red squirrels in prealpine forests, and corvids during nesting season. Hunting is completely prohibited in Natura 2000 zones and during breeding periods from March to July. Additional restrictions apply to harvesting females with young or immature animals. Necessary Documentation in Lombardy To hunt legally in Lombardy, both residents and non-residents must have a valid Italian firearms license, a Lombardy regional hunting card, and €20 million liability insurance coverage. Non-residents also need a temporary hunting permit costing €180 per year, a certified local guide for Alpine zones, and proof of marksmanship certification. Annual fees for hunting registration are approximately €60, and some districts may require attendance at environmental or safety training courses. Penalties and Fines in Lombardy Violations of Lombardian hunting laws carry heavy consequences. Fines range from €800 to €2,000 for seasonal violations and from €3,000 to €8,000 for killing protected species. Permanent revocation of a hunting license applies in cases of night poaching or illegal use of thermal optics. Weapons and equipment may also be confiscated in case of serious infractions. These penalties emphasize the importance of understanding and following local laws. Practical Advice for Hunters in Lombardy Successful hunting in Lombardy requires careful planning and suitable equipment. For wild boar, approved thermal optics used at dusk in November can increase success rates, especially near maize fields. A 12-gauge shotgun with non-toxic shot is recommended for waterfowl, particularly after autumn rains attract birds to wetlands. In high-altitude alpine terrain, .30-06 or larger caliber rifles with stabilized optics are ideal for long-range shots. Notable events include the Milan Hunting Expo, Po Valley Waterfowl Challenge, and the Alpine Chamois Championship, offering opportunities for learning, competition, and cultural engagement. Lombardy's hunting laws balance tradition with scientific wildlife management. Adhering strictly to them ensures sustainable populations and preserves this cultural heritage. Always verify zone-specific rules before heading into the field — micro-regulations differ across the 47 hunting districts.